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@@5031341 <h> East Texas <p> Posted 10:49 am Tuesday , November 06 , 2012 <p> Baby rescued from middle of the road on Farm-to-Market Road 14 <p> UPDATED Tuesday , November 6 , 2012 at 10:49 a.m . CDT <p> UPDATE : The baby , about one year old , was in the middle of Farm-to-Market Road 14 when two vehicles approached -- one from the south and one from the north , sheriff 's officials said . Both vehicles had to swerve to miss hitting the baby , officials said . The speed

@@5031441 <h> What is a copyright notice or copyright symbol and how to correctly use it . <p> A copyright notice or copyright symbol is an identifier placed on copies of the work to inform the world of copyright ownership . While use of a copyright notice was once required as a condition of copyright protection , it is now optional . Use of the copyright notice is the responsibility of the copyright owner and does not require advance permission from , or registration with the Copyright Office . <p> Because prior law did contain such a requirement , however , the use of a copyright notice or copyright symbol is still relevant to the copyright status of older works . <p> Copyright notice was required under the 1976 Copyright Act . This requirement was eliminated when the United States adhered to the Berne Convention , effective March 1 , 1989 . Although works published without copyright notice before that date could have entered the public domain in the United States , the Uruguay Round Agreements Act ( URAA ) restores copyright in certain foreign works originally published without copyright notice . <h> How Is A Copyright Symbol Useful <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ informs the public that the work is protected by copyright , identifies the copyright owner , and shows the year of first publication . Furthermore , in the event that a work is infringed , if a proper notice of copyright appears on the published copy or copies to which a defendant in a copyright infringement suit had access , then no weight shall be given to such a defendant 's defense based on innocent infringement . Innocent infringement occurs when the infringer did not realize that the work was protected . <p> The use of the copyright notice is the responsibility of the copyright owner and does not require advance permission from , or registration with , the Copyright Office . <h> Correct Form For The Copyright Symbol <p> The notice for visually perceptible copies should contain all the following three elements : <p> The year of first publication of the work . In the case of compilations or derivative works incorporating previously published material , the year date of first publication of the compilation or derivative work is sufficient . The year date may be omitted where a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ textual matter , if any , is reproduced in or on greeting cards , postcards , stationery , jewelry , dolls , toys , or any useful article . <p> The name of the owner of copyright in the work , or an abbreviation by which the name can be recognized , or a generally known alternative designation of the owner . <h> Phonorecords <p> Certain kinds of works for example , musical , dramatic , and literary works may be fixed not in copies but by means of sound in an audio recording . Since audio recordings such as audio tapes and phonograph disks are " phonorecords " and not " copies , " the " C in a circle " notice is not used to indicate protection of the underlying musical , dramatic , or literary work that is recorded . <h> Copyright Symbol for Phonorecords of Sound Recordings <p> Sound recordings are defined in the law as works that result from the fixation of a series of musical , spoken , or other sounds , but not including the sounds accompanying a motion picture or other audiovisual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or lectures . A sound recording is not the same as a phonorecord . A phonorecord is the physical object in which works of authorship are embodied . The word " phonorecord " includes cassette tapes , CDs , records , as well as other formats . <p> The notice for phonorecords embodying a sound recording should contain all the following three elements : <p> The copyright symbol ( the letter P in a circle ) <p> The year of first publication of the sound recording <p> The name of the owner of copyright in the sound recording , or an abbreviation by which the name can be recognized , or a generally known alternative designation of the owner . If the producer of the sound recording is named on the phonorecord label or container and if no other name appears in conjunction with the notice , the producer 's name shall be considered a part of the notice . <h> Example : See The Image To The Upper Right <h> Position of Notice <p> The copyright notice should be affixed to copies or phonorecords in such a way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . <p> The three elements of the notice should ordinarily appear together on the copies or phonorecords or on the phonorecord label or container . <p> Since questions may arise from the use of variant forms of the notice , you may wish to seek

@@5031541 <p> Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer , as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act . <p> Yes . No X . <p> Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act . <p> Yes . No X . <p> Indicate by check mark whether the registrant ( 1 ) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months ( or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports ) and ( 2 ) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days . <p> Yes X . No . <p> Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site , if any , every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T ( 232.405 of this chapter ) during the preceding 12 months ( or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ No . <p> Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein , and will not be contained , to the best of registrant 's knowledge , in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K . . <p> 1 <p> Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer , an accelerated filer , a non-accelerated filer , or a smaller reporting company . See definitions of " large accelerated filer , " " accelerated filer " and " smaller reporting company " in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act . <p> Large accelerated filer <p> . <p> Accelerated filer <p> . <p> Non-accelerated filer <p> . ( Do not check if a smaller reporting company ) <p> Smaller reporting company <p> X . <p> Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company ( as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act ) . <p> Yes . No X . <p> The aggregate market value of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ registrant as of January 31 , 2012 was $Nil based upon the price ( $Nil ) at which the common stock was last sold as of the last business day of the most recently completed second fiscal quarter , multiplied by the approximate number of shares of common stock held by persons other than executive officers , directors and five percent stockholders of the registrant without conceding that any such person is an ? affiliate ? of the registrant for purposes of the federal securities laws . <p> As of October 31 , 2012 , there were 119,528,352 shares of the registrant ? s $0.001 par value common stock issued and outstanding . Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 , amended ( the ? Securities Act ? ) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 , as amended ( the ? Exchange Act ? ) . These forward-looking statements are not historical facts but rather are based on current expectations , estimates and projections . We may use words such as ? anticipate , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plan , ? ? believe , ? ? foresee , ? ? estimate ? and variations of these words and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements . These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to certain risks , uncertainties and other factors , some of which are beyond our control , are difficult to predict and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or forecasted . These risks and uncertainties include the following : <p> <p> The availability and adequacy of our cash flow to meet our requirements ; <p> <p> Economic , competitive , demographic , business and other conditions in our local and regional markets ; <p> <p> Changes or developments in laws , regulations or taxes in our industry ; <p> <p> Actions taken or omitted to be taken by third parties including our suppliers and competitors , as well as legislative , regulatory , judicial and other governmental authorities ; <p> <p> Competition in our industry ; <p> <p> The loss of or failure to obtain any license or permit necessary or desirable in the operation of our business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ improvements or development plans ; <p> <p> The availability of additional capital to support capital improvements and development ; and <p> <p> Other risks identified in this report and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission or the SEC . <p> This report should be read completely and with the understanding that actual future results may be materially different from what we expect . The forward looking statements included in this report are made as of the date of this report and should be evaluated with consideration of any changes occurring after the date of this Report . We will not update forward-looking statements even though our situation may change in to update any forward-looking statements , whether as a result of new information , future events or otherwise . <p> Use of Term <p> Except as otherwise indicated by the context , references in this report to ? Company ? , ? FEC ? , ? we , ? ? us ? and ? our ? are references to Future Energy Corp . All references to ? USD ? or United States Dollars refer to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 <p> PART I <p> ITEM 1 . <p> BUSINESS <p> DESCRIPTION OF OUR BUSINESS <p> Corporate History <p> We were incorporated in the state of Nevada on April 6 , 2010 and our principal business address is 840 23rd Street , St. Georges , Quebec , G5Y 4N6 , Canada . We are currently an exploration stage company engaged in the acquisition , exploration , and development of prospective resource properties . Our current business focus is to implement the terms of our assignment agreements with Tim Cooksey Oil , LLC ( ? Tim Cooksey Oil ? ) pursuant to which we acquired a 1.57% working interest in two wells identified as Charles Prior #1A and #2A located in Franklin County , Illinois ( the ? Charles Prior Project ? ) in consideration of a payment of $25,000 , and with CJT.JKV Oil Development , LLC ( ? JKV Oil Development ? ) , pursuant to which we acquired a 3% working interest in five wells collectively identified as the Sesser Wells located in Franklin County , Illinois ( the ? Sesser Wells ? ) in consideration of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ became interested in the prospect of working interests in oil wells through online research . After conducting research , they determined that oil and gas investments could be an excellent long term strategy . Mr. and Ms. Paquet first became affiliated with Tim Cooksey Oil through an online posting whereby JKV Management Consulting , LLC ( ? JKV Consulting ? ) was presenting interests in various oil wells , including ones from Tim Cooksey Oil . JKV Consulting , of which Mr. Villines is the President , maintains an online posting of wells in which Mr. Villines , or one of his companies , owns a working interest because as an owner of such interests it is in Mr. Villines best interest to sell the remaining working interests since the sale of working interests to additional owners thereby amounts to a smaller proportion of operating and pumping expenses that Mr. Villines and other owners have to pay for the wells . Mr. Paquet initiated contact with the President of JKV Consulting , Mr. Jefferson Villines ( ? Mr. Villines ? ) , which ultimately led to the purchase of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cooksey ( ? Mr. Cooksey ? ) acting as the operator ( the ? Operator ? ) of the wells . Further research led to the decision that taking the Company public would provide the best opportunity to facilitate future financing . Mr. and Ms. Paquet did not agree to form the Company or to serve as an officer or director of the Company in any part due to a plan , agreement , or understanding that they would solicit , participate in , or facilitate the sale of the enterprise to ( or a business combination with ) a third party looking to obtain or become a public reporting entity . Further Mr. and Ms. Paquet have no such intention to do so . <p> Mr. Villines has a retained a 5 percent ( 5% ) interest in the Charles Prior Project and a fifteen percent ( 15% ) interest in the Sesser Wells ( with both projects hereinafter referred to as the ? Well Projects ? ) , with both interests held through JKV Oil Development . Through JKV Consulting , Mr. Villines coordinates with Mr. Cooksey , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eader ( ? Mr. Eader ? ) , to oversee the drilling of the Well Projects . The drilling of the Well Projects is being conducted by George Mitchell Drilling , an unaffiliated third party . Neither Mr. Villines nor his affiliated companies , JKV Consulting , and JKV Oil Development ( collectively the ? Affiliated Companies ? ) , have received any compensation or commission in conjunction with the assignment of either of the Wells Projects in which the Company owns working interests . Other than the interests Mr. Cooksey has retained in the Charles Prior Project and the Sesser Wells , and Mr. Cooksey ? s role as Operator of the Well Projects , Mr. Cooksey and Mr. Villines and his Affiliated Companies do not have any related affiliations or written agreements or contracts ; however , they hold working interests in other non-affiliated wells together . <p> We entered into operating agreements with Tim Cooksey Oil on July 25 , 2010 for the Charles Prior Project and on September 1 , 2010 , for the Sesser Wells . Pursuant to the terms of our agreements with Tim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Operator for the drilling , testing and completion of the subject wells and we agreed to share the proportionate ongoing operating fees and pumping expenses of the Charles Prior Project as such fees were waived for the Sesser Wells as part of our negotiations for acquiring the working interest in the Sesser Wells ; however , we are not responsible for any additional Operator expenses such as drilling , testing , or completion of the wells . If the wells are viable and can be developed , we will receive a pro-rata share of any revenues equivalent to our working interest in the wells . If the wells are not viable , we expect the Operator to plug the wells ; however , we will not be responsible for any portion of the costs related to plugging the wells . Additionally , pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreements with Tim Cooksey Oil , LLC , we are severally liable for environmental and any other liabilities with regards to the Well Projects ; however , we are only liable to the extent of our working interest in such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be small as compared to the percentage of liability for the entire working interest , but such liability could still pose a material risk to our investment . <p> 5 <p> There are leases underlying the wells in which we own working interests ; however we are not the holder of any of these leases and therefore we are not responsible for the payment or evaluation of any obligations under such leases . Tim Cooksey Oil is responsible for paying and maintaining the leases and has informed the Company that the amount of work done on both of the leases has far exceeded the amount of work necessary to maintain the leases . The lessee may lose substantial portions or all of the entire property underlying our Well Projects due to operating and environmental hazards , which either have not been insured against or can not be insured against . This could result in a potential reduction of our working interests in the Well Projects , or even losing such interests in their entirety . Additionally , government regulations could either increase the cost of operations on the Well Projects @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the properties underlying the Well Projects . Further , we may be subject to partial payment for such liabilities according to our working interests in the Well Projects . The payment of such liabilities could reduce the funds available to us or could result in a total loss of our working interests . The occurrence of any of these events could significantly reduce our revenues , cause substantial losses or impair our future operating results and liquidity as our working interests in the Well Projects are the only assets we currently have . <p> The Charles Prior Project is located in the Illinois Basin approximately 100 miles southeast of St. Louis , Missouri . The authorized work program under the joint venture includes drilling , testing and completion of the two wells to a total depth of 3,800 +/- to check the Rosiclare Sandstone and Salem formation for hydrocarbons to be abstracted and sold . The Sesser Wells are also located in the Illinois Basin approximately 100 miles southeast of St. Louis , Missouri . The authorized work program under the joint venture includes drilling , testing and completion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ +/- to check the St Louis formations for hydrocarbons to be abstracted and sold . The work program on the Sesser Wells commenced in August of 2010 . If we are successful in generating revenues from our joint ventures , we intend to acquire working interests in additional wells in the project area . Subject to obtaining additional financing we intend to acquire further resource or mineral projects . <p> Although we are currently focused on projects located in certain geographic regions , we continually evaluate attractive resource opportunities in other geographic areas . Our current focus is on acquiring working interests in oil and/or gas wells in the states of Texas , Illinois , California , and in the province of Alberta , Canada . However , we have not entered into negotiations or discussions for any of these purchases as we are merely exploring the areas for potential opportunities . Further , we do not have any reserves on any of our wells as there has not been any reserve reports conducted on the properties underlying the wells . We have limited operating income and , as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operations and to implement our growth strategy . <p> Mr. and Ms. Paquet , our executive officers , currently reside in Quebec , Canada and while neither has technical training or prior experiences in the oil and gas industry , Mr. Paquet has prior project management , and business experience . Additionally , Mr. Andersen , who serves solely as a director of the Company , is a licensed geologist with experience in mineral and petroleum exploration , and he has verbally agreed to devote 10-11 hours per week to the Company . Further Mr. Villines , who also serves solely as a director of the Company , has years of experience in the oil and gas industry as the President of both JKV Consulting , a consulting Company located in Texas , which focuses on development and exploration of oil and gas projects and JKV Oil Development , an asset holding company which focuses on oil and gas interests . In addition , Mr. Villines has managed the promotion of developmental and exploratory oil and gas projects to private and institutional bodies , as well as providing private consulting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . These experiences have given him the skills necessary to evaluate acquisitions , to direct drilling projects and to manage all aspects of extracting oil and gas , including selling the output . Mr. Villines has verbally agreed to devote 2 hours per week to the Company . <p> While neither Mr. nor Ms. Paquet has visited the subject property , one of the Company ? s directors , Mr. Villines has visited both of the properties in which the Company currently owns working interests on two occasions . Specifically , Mr. Villines visited the properties once in May of 2010 and once in November of 2010 . Additionally , during the negotiations to purchase the Well Projects and subsequent to the purchase , JKV Consulting , of which Mr. Villines is the President , provided the Company with photos and videos of the properties and the associated drilling work . <p> To date , we have earned $2,304 revenues , have cash on hand of $409,546 and have incurred a net loss of $ ( 100,042 ) in the period from inception through July 31 , 2012 . We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we enter into commercial production of our working interests in our Well Projects . These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company ? s ability to continue as a going concern . The continuation of our company as a going concern is dependent upon the continued financial support from our shareholders , the ability of our company to obtain necessary equity financing to achieve our operating objectives , and the attainment of profitable operations from our working interests in oil wells . <p> 6 <p> Charles Prior Project <p> On July 29 , 2010 , we entered into an assignment agreement ( the ? CP Assignment Agreement ? ) with Tim Cooksey Oil pursuant to which we acquired a 1.57% working interest in the following two wells located in Franklin County , Illinois in consideration of a payment of $25,000 . Tim Cooksey Oil is responsible for paying and maintaining the lease and the Charles Prior lease encompasses 80 acres . As granted by the Charles Prior Lease agreement between Tim Cooksey Oil and the owner of the Charles Prior Project , Tim Cooksey Oil holds an 80% lease net @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Charles Prior Project underlying lease , which is further documented in the CP Assignment Agreement . This results in the Company having a net revenue interest of approximately 1.26% in the Charles Prior Project . JKV Oil Development , of which our director , Mr. Villines , is the President , owns a five percent ( 5% ) working interest in the Charles Prior Project . <p> Charles Prior #1A : <p> In August of 2010 , drilling operations were commenced . Charles Prior #1A ( ? CP 1 ? ) was drilled to a total depth of approximately 3,500 feet . CP 1 had a high volume of gas and had to put the well on a choke . The well was choked back and put online averaging 40 to 50 BOPD . CP 1 had drilling mud come up the well bore , which restricted the oil production , and this was resolved this with acid treatments . Prior to acidizing , the Operator swabbed the well to determine the type of chemical combination needed to dissolve all of the mud to make the acidizing process more efficient @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , on or about June 27 , 2011 the Operator decided to drill 2 legs on the well . This involved using a tool deep underground to drill out twenty feet in two different directions so that the oil would flow in at a higher level from both sides . This has caused the oil to flow at a faster pace , but the Operator will continually evaluate CP 1 to see if any additional steps need to be taken to increase production . <p> Charles Prior #2A : <p> The well has been perforated and acidized . Charles Prior #2A ( ? CP 2 ? ) will be producing from three pay zones , which will be on the pump jack . The well was fraced using a water frac , which had the objective of breaking up the rock in the formation to allow the oil to flow more easily . During a water frac , water and sand are pumped down the well at high pressure over the course of one day . This fluid is then pumped out of the well over an extended time period @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over 1,400 barrels of fluid , composed primarily of water and sand . The pumping of the fluid resulting from the frac took place from approximately November 18 , 2010 to January 18 , 2011 . Over this time period , the well pumped out an average of 100 barrels of fluid per day . The pumped fluid was composed primarily of water and sand with approximately 6% oil . The Operator intends to determine the effect drilling 2 legs has had on the CP 1 well , and based on the outcome , may perform the same procedure with the CP 2 well to increase the flow of fluid . As of November 30 , 2011 , there has not been any additional testing or treatments performed on the CP 2 well . The Operator does not have any plans to conduct testing on CP 2 as the well has already been drilled , and the Operator does not have any immediate plans to conduct treating on the wells , but he may decide to do so after re-evaluating the production of the well . <p> Fees and Revenue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pumping fees on the Charles Prior Project are estimated to be approximately $1,500 per month . Due to the Company ? s 1.57% working interest , the Company anticipates paying $23.55 per month in operating expenses for the Charles Prior Project , not including any saltwater disposal fees , which have not been incurred by the Company as of yet . <p> Since November of 2010 , division orders were being processed by the Operator , Tim Cooksey Oil . Countrymark Cooperative , LLP ( ? Countrymark ? ) has purchased the oil from the Operator . Other than these division orders , the Company does not have any delivery commitments and enters into purchase orders as the oil becomes available . The Operator will be performing daily maintenance on the wells , but there will be no more drilling on the Charles Prior Project . <p> Sesser Wells <p> On December 17 , 2010 , we entered into an assignment agreement ( the ? Sesser Assignment Agreement ? ) with JKV Oil Development pursuant to which we acquired a 3% working interest in the following wells located in Franklin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . Tim Cooksey Oil is responsible for paying and maintaining the lease and the Sesser lease encompasses 500 acres . As granted by the Sesser Lease Agreement between Tim Cooksey Oil and the owner of the Sesser Wells , Tim Cooksey Oil holds an 80% lease net revenue interest in the Sesser Wells , pursuant to the Sesser Wells underlying lease , which is further documented in the Sesser Assignment Agreement . This results in the Company having a net revenue interest of 2.4% in the Sesser Wells . JKV Oil Development , of which our director , Mr. Villines , is the President , retained a fifteen percent ( 15% ) working interest in the Sesser Wells . <p> The Sesser Wells consist of ( i ) three exploratory wells , ( ii ) one new well referred to as the Illinois Minerals #1-A ( the ? Illinois Well ? ) , and ( i ) one injection well . The three exploratory wells have previously been drilled , and have produced oil in the past ; however , as they are older wells they could be entirely depleted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ water into the exploratory wells to bring any remaining oil to the surface . This is accomplished by recharging the formation of the wells to produce a higher volume of oil from the past producing wells . Additionally , drilling was commenced on the Illinois Well in August of 2010 . <p> 7 <p> As of February 7 , 2011 , the final well reports indicated that the Illinois Well had been drilled to a total depth of 3,500 feet . Around July 14 , 2011 , the Operator injected water into the water injection well in order for the water to push the oil over to the Illinois Well to increase production . In the event this does not increase production , the operator may decide to treat the wells with chemicals if there is paraffin , or a waxy buildup , caking the perforations of the well bore , but the operator has no immediate plans to do this as he would like to continually re-evaluate how much oil is being produced from the Illinois Well . <p> The aggregate operating and pumping fees on the Sesser Wells @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as part of the negotiations for receiving the working interest , the Company is currently not responsible for any operating fees for the Sesser Wells . The Operator has informed the Company that operating fees will be assessed against the Company once the division orders are processed . Due to the Company ? s 3% working interest in the Sesser Wells , once the Company is responsible for the operating fees for the Sesser Wells , the Company anticipates its share of the operating fees shall be approximately $22.50 per month , not including any saltwater disposal fees , which have not been incurred by the Company as of yet . The Sesser Wells were being refitted for new drilling equipment , but there will be no more drilling on the wells in the near future . However , the Operator may decide to perform new drillings on the production wells if needed . The Company does not have any delivery commitments and enters into purchase orders as the oil becomes available ; therefore , the level of oil in tanks fluctuates . <p> The hydrocarbons being extracted and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ itself and a small amount of natural gas . The oil being extracted and produced from the Well Projects is the only hydrocarbon currently being sold , and thus the only hydrocarbon currently generating revenue for the Company . While there is natural gas being produced from the Well Projects , it is an insufficient amount to be viable for sale ; therefore , the natural gas is not generating revenue for the Company and it is solely being used to power the pump jacks to further extract oil from the Well Projects . <p> Corporate Developments <p> On June 1 , 2012 , Future Energy , Corp. , a Nevada corporation ( the ? Company ? ) appointed Mr. Chester Ku ( ? Mr. Ku ? ) as a director of the Company . Mr. Ku accepted such appointment . <p> On or about June 4 , 2012 , the Company filed with the Secretary of State of Nevada a Certificate of Change to its Articles of Incorporation ( the ? Certificate of Change ? ) . As a result of the Certificate of Change , the Company has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five hundred million ( 500,000,000 ) and increased the authorized number of shares of preferred stock to two hundred million ( 200,000,000 ) . <p> Government Regulations <p> The production and sale of oil and gas is subject to regulation by state , federal , and local authorities . In most areas there are statutory provisions regulating the production of oil and natural gas under which administrative agencies may set allowable rates of production and promulgate rules in connection with the operation and production of such wells , ascertain and determine the reasonable market demand of oil and gas , and adjust allowable rates with respect thereto . <p> The sale of liquid hydrocarbons was subject to federal regulation under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 , which amended various acts , including the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973 . These regulations and controls included mandatory restrictions upon the prices at which most domestic crude oil and various petroleum products could be sold . All price controls and restrictions on the sale of crude oil at the wellhead have been withdrawn . It is possible , however @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but when , if ever , such re-imposition might occur and the effect thereof on us can not be predicted . <p> The sale of certain categories of natural gas in interstate commerce is subject to regulation under the Natural Gas Act and the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 ( ? NGPA ? ) . Under the NGPA , a comprehensive set of statutory ceiling prices applies to all first sales of natural gas unless the gas is specifically exempt from regulation ( i.e. , unless the gas is ? deregulated ? ) . Administration and enforcement of the NGPA ceiling prices are delegated to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ( ? FERC ? ) . In June 1986 , FERC issued Order No. 451 , which , in general , is designed to provide a higher NGPA ceiling price for certain vintages of old gas . It is possible that we may in the future acquire significant amounts of natural gas subject to NGPA price regulations and/or FERC Order No. 451 . <p> The operations related to the Well Projects are subject to extensive and continually changing regulation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under constant review for amendment and expansion . Many departments and agencies , both federal and state , are authorized by statute to issue and have issued rules and regulations binding on the oil and natural gas industry and its individual participants . The failure to comply with such rules and regulations can result in large penalties . The regulatory burden on this industry could increase our share of operating expenses and , therefore , affect our profitability . However , we do not believe that these regulations will have a significant negative impact on our limited operations with respect to the Well Projects . <p> 8 <p> Employees <p> We have no significant employees other than Georges Paquet , our President , Chief Executive Officer , Chief Financial Officer , Principal Accounting Officer , Secretary , Treasurer and Director , and Melany Paquet our Vice President and Director . We believe that until such time that we have fully developed our plan of operations we will not have any employees and that we will frequently use consultants to assist in the completion of various projects . <p> WHERE YOU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and current reports , proxy statements and other information with the SEC . You may read and copy our reports or other filings made with the SEC at the SEC ? s Public Reference Room , located at 100 F Street , N.W. , Washington , DC 20549 . You can obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 . You can also access these reports and other filings electronically on the SEC ? s web site , www.sec.gov . <p> ITEM 1A . <p> RISK FACTORS <p> We are a smaller reporting company as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are not required to provide the information under this item . <p> ITEM 1B . <p> UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS <p> None . <p> ITEM 2 . <p> PROPERTIES <p> Principal Executive Offices <p> Our principal executive offices are located at 840 23rd Street , St. Georges , Quebec , G5Y 4N6 , Canada . Mr. Paquet provides the office space to us at no cost . We believe our current premises are adequate for our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ July 25 , 2010 , the Company entered into an Assignment of Oil and Gas Leases with Tim Cooksey Oil , whereby the Company was assigned a 1.57% working interest in and to certain oil and gas leases located in Franklin County , Illinois and owned by Tim Cooksey Oil . The working interests were acquired for an aggregate total of $25,000 , which covered the following leases as specifically described as : ( i ) Charles Prior #1A , West Half of the Southwest Quarter of Section 8 , Franklin County , Illinois ; ( ii ) Charles Prior #2A , West Half of the Southwest Quarter of Section 8 , Franklin County , Illinois ; ( the foregoing leased properties are referred to herein as the " Charles Prior Project " ) . These properties are located in the Illinois Basin approximately 100 miles southeast of St. Louis , Missouri . Local production is predominantly from the Aux Vases Sandston and the St. Genevieve Limestone at a depth less than 3300 feet . <p> On November 17 , 2010 , the Company entered into an Assignment of Oil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Company was assigned a 3% working interest in and to a certain oil and gas lease located in Franklin County , Illinois and owned by JKV Oil Development . The working interest was acquired for an aggregate total of $25,000 , which covered the following lease as specifically described as the Sesser Wells located at Section 20 of the Northeast Quarter and the Southwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter of the East One Half of the Southeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter ( Sec. 20 T5S , R2E ) , ( the foregoing leased property is referred to herein as the " Sesser Wells " ) . <p> ITEM 3 . <p> LEGAL PROCEEDINGS <p> We know of no material , existing or pending legal proceedings against our Company , nor are we involved as a plaintiff in any material proceeding or pending litigation . There are no proceedings in which our director , officer or any affiliates , or any registered or beneficial shareholder , is an adverse party or has a material interest adverse to our interest . <p> As of October 24 , 2012 , there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to contact an authorized OTC Bulletin Board market-maker for sponsorship of our securities on the OTC Bulletin Board . <p> Record Holders <p> As of October 24 , 2012 , there were 119,528,352 shares of the registrant ? s $0.001 par value common stock issued and outstanding and were owned by approximately 44 holders of record , based on information provided by our transfer agent . <p> Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities <p> None . <p> Re-Purchases of Equity Securities <p> None . <p> Dividends <p> On May 29 , 2012 , the Board of Directors of the Company authorized the issuance of a dividend ( the ? Forward Split ? ) to its shareholders , payable as a 12-for-1 forward split of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock of the Company for all shareholders of record on the close of business on May 25 , 2012 . As a result of the Forward Split , the issued and outstanding shares of common stock increased from 6,428,571 to 77,142,852 . The Forward Split shares are payable upon surrender of certificates to the Company ? s transfer agent . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Common Stock since inception and presently anticipate that all earnings , if any , will be retained for development of our business and that no dividends on our Common Stock will be declared in the foreseeable future . Any future dividends will be subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend upon , among other things , future earnings , operating and financial condition , capital requirements , general business conditions and other pertinent facts . Therefore , there can be no assurance that any dividends on our Common Stock will be paid in the future . <p> Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans <p> None . <p> ITEM 6 . <p> SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA <p> We are a smaller reporting company as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are not required to provide the information under this item . Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 , amended ( the ? Securities Act ? ) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . These forward-looking statements are not historical facts but rather are based on current expectations , estimates and projections . We may use words such as ? anticipate , ? ? expect , ? ? intend , ? ? plan , ? ? believe , ? ? foresee , ? ? estimate ? and variations of these words and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements . These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to certain risks , uncertainties and other factors , some of which are beyond our control , are difficult to predict and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or forecasted . You should read this report completely and with the understanding that actual future results may be materially different from what we expect . The forward-looking statements included in this report are made as of the date of this report and should be evaluated with consideration of any changes occurring after the date of this Report . We will not update forward-looking statements even though our situation may change in to update any forward-looking statements , whether as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ <p> RESULTS OF OPERATIONS <p> Working Capital <p> July 31 , <p> 2012 <p> $ <p> July 31 , <p> 2011 <p> $ <p> Current Assets <p> 414,546 <p> 11,005 <p> Current Liabilities <p> 95,733 <p> 61,695 <p> Working Capital ( Deficit ) <p> 318,813 <p> ( 50,690 ) <p> Cash Flows <p> Year ended <p> July 31 , <p> 2012 <p> $ <p> Year ended <p> July 31 , <p> 2011 <p> $ <p> Cash Flows from used in Operating Activities <p> ( 44,814 ) <p> ( 18,980 ) <p> Cash Flows used in Investing Activities <p> - <p> ( 25,000 ) <p> Cash Flows provided by Financing Activities <p> 443,355 <p> 45,000 <p> Net Increase in Cash During Period <p> 398,541 <p> 1,020 <p> Operating Revenues <p> Operating revenues for the period ended July 31 , 2012 was $ ( 1,411 ) . <p> Operating revenues for the period ended July 31 , 2011 was $ ( 893 ) . <p> Operating Expenses and Net Loss <p> Operating expenses for the years ended July 31 , 2012 and 2011 was $54,110 and $36,656 and is comprised of expenses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ <p> Net loss for the years ended July 31 , 2012 and 2011 was $ ( 54,352 ) and $ ( 36,162 ) is comprised of expenses related to mineral claims and general and administrative expenses . <p> Liquidity and Capital Resources <p> As at July 31 , 2012 , the Company ? s cash and total current asset balance was $414,546 compared to $11,005 as at July 31 , 2011 . The increase in total assets is attributed to increased share capital investments from shareholders . <p> As at July 31 , 2012 , the Company had total liabilities of $95,733 compared with total liabilities of $61,695 as at July 31 , 2011 . The increase in total liabilities was attributed to increased funding received by a related party of the Company . <p> 11 <p> As at July 31 , 2012 , the Company had a working capital of $318,813 compared with a working capital deficit of 50,690 as at July 31 , 2011 . <p> Cashflow from Operating Activities <p> During the period ended July 31 , 2012 , the Company used $44,814 of cash for operating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operating activities during the period ended July 31 , 2011 . The change in net cash used in operating activities is attributed to increase in operating expenses . <p> Cashflow from Investing Activities <p> No cash was used in investing activities during the year ended July 31 , 2012 as compared to $25,000 used during the year ended July 31 , 2011 . <p> Cashflow from Financing Activities <p> During the period ended July 31 , 2012 , the Company received $443,355 of cash from financing activities compared to $45,000 for the period ended July 31 , 2011 . The change in financing activities is attributed to additional equity financing <p> Going Concern <p> We have not attained profitable operations and are dependent upon obtaining financing to pursue any extensive acquisitions and activities . For these reasons , our auditors stated in their report on our audited financial statements that they have substantial doubt that we will be able to continue as a going concern without further financing . <p> Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements <p> We have no significant off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in financial condition , revenues or expenses , results of operations , liquidity , capital expenditures or capital resources that are material to stockholders . <p> Future Financings <p> We will continue to rely on equity sales of our common shares in order to continue to fund our business operations . Issuances of additional shares will result in dilution to existing stockholders . There is no assurance that we will achieve any additional sales of the equity securities or arrange for debt or other financing to fund our operations and other activities . <p> Critical Accounting Policies <p> Our financial statements and accompanying notes have been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis . The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities , the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods . <p> We regularly evaluate the accounting policies and estimates that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of these policies is included in the notes to our financial statements . In general , management 's estimates are based on historical experience , on information from third party professionals , and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the facts and circumstances . Actual results could differ from those estimates made by management . <p> Contractual Obligations <p> We are a smaller reporting company as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are not required to provide the information under this item . <p> Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements <p> The Company has implemented all new accounting pronouncements that are in effect and that may impact its financial statements and does not believe that there are any other new accounting pronouncements that have been issued that might have a material impact on its financial statements . <p> ITEM 7A . <p> QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK <p> We are a smaller reporting company as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are not required to provide the information under this item . <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DATA <p> Future Energy Corp . <p> ( An Exploration Stage Company ) <p> July 31 , 2012 <p> Index <p> Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm <p> F ? 2 <p> Balance Sheets <p> F ? 3 <p> Statements of Operations <p> F ? 4 <p> Statement of Stockholders ? Equity ( Deficit ) <p> F ? 5 <p> Statements of Cash Flows <p> F ? 6 <p> Notes to the Financial Statements <p> F ? 7 <p> F-1 <p> REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM <p> To the Board of Directors <p> Future Energy , Corp <p> ( An Exploration Stage Company ) <p> Canada G5Y 4N6 <p> We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Future Energy Corporation ( an exploration stage company ) ( the ? Company ? ) as of July 31 , 2012 and July 31 , 2011 and the related statements of operations , stockholders ? equity ( deficit ) , and cash flows for the year ended July 31 , 2012 and 2011 and the period from April 6 , 2010 ( inception ) through July 31 , 2012 . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s management . Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits . <p> We conducted our audits in accordance with standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board ( United States ) . Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatements . The Company is not required to have , nor were we engaged to perform , an audit of its internal control over financial reporting . Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances , but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company ? s internal control over financial reporting . Accordingly , we express no such opinion . An audit includes examining , on a test basis , evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements . An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management , as well as evaluating the overall financial statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ basis for our opinion . <p> In our opinion , the financial statements referred to above present fairly , in all material respects , the financial position of the Company as of July 31 , 2012 and July 31 , 2011 and the related results of its operations and its cash flows for the year ended July 31 , 2012 and the period from April 6 , 2010 ( inception ) through July 31 , 2012 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America . <p> The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern . The Company has incurred losses from operation since inception . This factor raises substantial doubt about the Company ? s ability to continue as a going concern . Management ? s plans in regard to this matter are described in Note 2 . The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty . <p> /s/ MaloneBailey , LLP <p> www.malone-bailey.com <p> Houston , Texas <p> October 29 , 2012 <p> F-2 <p> Future @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ <p> Balance Sheets <p> ASSETS <p> July 31 , <p> 2012 <p> July 31 , <p> 2011 <p> Current Assets <p> Cash <p> $ <p> 409,546 <p> $ <p> 11,005 <p> Subscription Receivable <p> 5,000 <p> - <p> Total Current Assets <p> 414,546 <p> 11,005 <p> Oil and gas properties <p> Unproved property <p> 50,000 <p> 50,000 <p> Total Assets <p> $ <p> 464,546 <p> $ <p> 61,005 <p> LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS ? EQUITY ( DEFICIT ) <p> Current Liabilities <p> Accounts Payable <p> $ <p> 12,919 <p> $ <p> 14,069 <p> Accrued Liabilities <p> 17,798 <p> 7,110 <p> Due to related parties <p> 516 <p> 516 <p> Total Current Liabilities <p> 31,233 <p> 21,695 <p> Loan payable to related party <p> 64,500 <p> 40,000 <p> Total Liabilities <p> 95,733 <p> 61,695 <p> Stockholders ? Equity ( Deficit ) <p> Preferred stock Authorized : <p> 200,000,000 shares , par value $0.001 <p> none shares issued and outstanding <p> - <p> - <p> Common stock Authorized : <p> 500,000,000 shares , par value $0.001 119,528,352 and <p> 77,142,852 shares issued and outstanding , respectively <p> 119,528 <p> 77,143 <p> Additional Paid-in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the exploration stage <p> ( 100,042 ) <p> ( 45,690 ) <p> Total stockholders ? equity ( deficit ) <p> 368,813 <p> ( 690 ) <p> Total Liabilities and Stockholders ? Equity ( Deficit ) <p> $ <p> 464,546 <p> $ <p> 61,005 <p> ( The accompanying notes are an integral part of these audited financial statements ) <p> F-3 <p> Future Energy Corp . <p> ( An Exploration Stage Company ) <p> Statement of Operations <p> Year <p> Ended <p> July 31 , <p> 2012 <p> Year <p> Ended <p> July 31 , <p> 2011 <p> April 6 , 2010 <p> ( Inception ) <p> to July 31 , <p> 2012 <p> Revenue <p> $ <p> 1,411 <p> $ <p> 893 <p> $ <p> 2,304 <p> Lease Operating Expense <p> - <p> 138 <p> 138 <p> General and administrative <p> 54,110 <p> 36,518 <p> 100,156 <p> Total Operating Expenses <p> 54,110 <p> 36,656 <p> 100,294 <p> Total Operating Loss Before Interest <p> ( 52,699 ) <p> ( 35,763 ) <p> ( 97,990 ) <p> Interest expense <p> ( 1,653 ) <p> ( 399 ) <p> ( 2,052 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ <p> ( 36,162 ) <p> $ <p> ( 100,042 ) <p> Net Loss Per Share ? Basic and Diluted <p> $ <p> ( 0.00 ) <p> $ <p> ( 0.00 ) <p> Weighted Average Shares Outstanding <p> 7,459,000 <p> 7,142,852 <p> ( The accompanying notes are an integral part of these audited financial statements ) <p> F-4 <p> Future Energy Corp . <p> ( An Exploration Stage Company ) <p> Statement of Stockholders ? Equity ( Deficit ) <p> For the period from April 6 , 2010 ( Inception ) to July 31 , 2012 <p> Deficit <p> Accumulated <p> Additional <p> During the <p> Common Stock <p> Paid-in <p> Subscription <p> Development <p> Shares <p> Amount <p> Capital <p> Receivable <p> Stage <p> Total <p> Balance , April 6 , 2010 <p> ( Date of Inception ) <p> ? <p> $ <p> ? <p> $ <p> ? <p> $ <p> ? <p> $ <p> ? <p> $ <p> ? <p> Common stock issued for cash <p> 68,571,432 <p> 68,572 <p> ( 28,572 ) <p> ? <p> ? <p> 40,000 <p> Subscription receivable related <p> to common stock <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) <p> ? <p> ? <p> Net loss <p> ? <p> ? <p> ? <p> ? <p> ( 9,528 ) <p> ( 9,528 ) <p> Balance - July 31 , 2010 <p> 77,142,852 <p> 77,143 <p> ( 32,143 ) <p> ( 5,000 ) <p> ( 9,528 ) <p> 30,472 <p> Collection of subscription <p> receivable <p> ? <p> ? <p> ? <p> 5,000 <p> ? <p> 5,000 <p> Net loss <p> ? <p> ? <p> ? <p> ? <p> ( 36,162 ) <p> ( 36,162 ) <p> Balance ? July 31 , 2011 <p> 77,142,852 <p> $ <p> 77,143 <p> $ <p> ( 32,143 ) <p> $ <p> ? <p> $ <p> ( 45,690 ) <p> $ <p> ( 690 ) <p> Common stock issued for cash <p> 41,885,500 <p> 41,885 <p> 376,970 <p> ? <p> ? <p> 418,855 <p> Subscription receivable related <p> to common stock <p> 500,000 <p> 500 <p> 4,500 <p> ? <p> ? <p> 5,000 <p> Net loss <p> ? <p> ? <p> ? <p> ? <p> ( 54,352 ) <p> ( 54,352 ) <p> Balance ? July 31 , 2012 <p> 119,528,352 <p> $ <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ <p> ( 100,042 ) <p> $ <p> 368,813 <p> F-5 <p> Future Energy <p> ( An Exploration Stage Company ) <p> Statement of Cash Flows <p> ( Unaudited ) <p> Year <p> Ended <p> July 31 , <p> 2012 <p> Year <p> Ended <p> July 31 , <p> 2011 <p> April 6 , 2010 <p> ( Inception ) <p> to July 31 , <p> 2012 <p> Cash flows from operating activities <p> Net loss <p> $ <p> ( 54,352 ) <p> $ <p> ( 36,162 ) <p> $ <p> ( 100,042 ) <p> Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used <p> in operating activities : <p> Changes in operating assets and liabilities : <p> Prepaid expenses <p> - <p> 1,073 <p> - <p> Accounts payable <p> ( 1,150 ) <p> 14,069 <p> 12,919 <p> Accrued expenses <p> 10,688 <p> 2,040 <p> 17,798 <p> Net cash used in operating activities <p> ( 44,814 ) <p> ( 18,980 ) <p> ( 69,325 ) <p> Cash flows from investing activities <p> Acquisition of property <p> - <p> ( 25,000 ) <p> ( 50,000 ) <p> Net cash used in investing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) <p> Cash flows from financing activities <p> Proceeds from issuance of common stock <p> 418,855 <p> 5,000 <p> 463,855 <p> Proceeds from loan payable to related party <p> 24,500 <p> 40,000 <p> 64,500 <p> Due to related parties <p> - <p> - <p> 516 <p> Net cash provided by financing activities <p> 443,355 <p> 45,000 <p> 528,871 <p> Net increase in cash <p> 398,541 <p> 1,020 <p> 409,546 <p> Cash , beginning of period <p> 11,005 <p> 9,985 <p> - <p> Cash , end of period <p> 409,546 <p> 11,005 <p> 409,546 <p> Non-cash investing and financing activities : <p> Subscription receivable <p> $ <p> 5,000 <p> $ <p> - <p> $ <p> 5,000 <p> Supplemental Disclosures <p> Interest paid <p> $ <p> - <p> $ <p> - <p> $ <p> - <p> Income taxes paid <p> $ <p> - <p> $ <p> - <p> $ <p> - <p> F-6 <p> Future Energy Corp . <p> ( An Exploration Stage Company ) <p> Notes to the Financial Statements <p> 1 . <p> Nature of Operations and Continuance of Business <p> Future Energy Corp . ( ? we ? , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incorporated in the state of Nevada on April 6 , 2010 . The Company has been in the exploration stage since its formation and has not commenced business operations . The company complies with statements of Financial Accounting Standard ASC 915-15 and the Securities and Exchange Commission Exchange Act 7 for its characterization of the company as an exploration stage company . <p> 2 . <p> Going Concern <p> These financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis , which implies the Company will continue to realize it assets and discharge its liabilities in the normal course of business . During the period ended July 31 , 2012 , the Company has an accumulated deficit of $100,042 . The Company is in the business of exploiting and developing natural resources . The Company participates in and invests in development projects with other companies across a wide range of natural resources . The continuation of the Company as a going concern is dependent upon the continued financial support from its shareholders , the ability of the Company to obtain necessary equity financing to continue operations , and the attainment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Company ? s ability to continue as a going concern . These financial statements do not include any adjustments to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern . <p> 3 . <p> Summary of Significant Accounting Policies <p> a ) <p> Basis of Presentation <p> These financial statements and notes are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States . The Company ? s fiscal year end is July 31 . <p> b ) <p> Use of Estimates <p> The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States necessarily requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements . We regularly evaluate estimates and judgments based on historical experience and other relevant facts and circumstances . Actual results could differ from those estimates . <p> c ) <p> Cash and Cash Equivalents <p> The Company considers all highly liquid instruments with a maturity of three months or less at the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ <p> Oil and Gas Properties <p> The Company applies the successful efforts method of accounting for oil and gas properties . Under the successful efforts method , exploration costs such as exploratory geological and geophysical costs , delay rentals and exploration overhead are charged against earnings as incurred . Acquisition costs and costs of drilling exploratory wells are capitalized pending determination of whether proved reserves can be attributed to the area as a result of drilling the well . If management determines that commercial quantities of hydrocarbons have not been discovered , capitalized costs associated with exploratory wells are charged to exploration expense . Acquisition costs of unproved leaseholds are assessed for impairment during the holding period and transferred to proved oil and gas properties to the extent associated with successful exploration activities . Significant undeveloped leases are assessed individually for impairment , based on the Company ? s current exploration plans , and a valuation allowance is provided if impairment is indicated . <p> Depreciation , depletion and amortization of the cost of proved oil and gas properties are calculated using the unit-of-production method . The reserve base used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of proved developed reserves and proved undeveloped reserves for leasehold acquisition costs and the cost to acquire proved properties . With respect to lease and well equipment costs , which include development costs and successful exploration drilling costs , the reserve base includes only proved developed reserves . Estimated future dismantlement , restoration and abandonment costs , net of salvage values , are taken into account . Our current properties have minimal production and are considered unproved as of July 31 , 2011 and July 31 , 2012 and as such are not subject to depletion until such time they are further developed and determined to be proved or impaired . <p> The Company reviews its proved properties in accordance with Accounting Standard Codification ( ASC ) 932-360 , Extractive Activities Oil &; Gas , Property , Plant , and Equipment ( ASC 360 ) . ASC 360 requires the Company to evaluate property and equipment as an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the property and equipment below the carrying amount . If the carrying amount of property and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then the Company would recognize an impairment loss for the difference between the carrying amount and the discounted cash flow . Unproved properties are also evaluated under ASC 932-360 periodically by management to determine whether they have been impaired . A property would likely be impaired , for example , if a dry hole has been drilled on it and the entity has no firm plans to continue drilling . Also , the likelihood of partial or total impairment of a property increases as the expiration of the lease term approaches if drilling activity has not commenced on the property or on nearby properties . If the results of the assessment indicate impairment , a loss shall be recognized by providing a valuation allowance . <p> In fiscal year ended July 31 , 2012 and 2011 there was no impairment of our oil and gas properties . <p> e ) <p> Asset Retirement Obligations <p> In August 2001 , the FASB issued ASC 410-20 , ? Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations ? ( ASC 410-20 ) . ASC 410-20 requires that the fair value of an asset retirement cost , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cost of the related long-lived asset and subsequently allocated to expense using a systematic and rational method . <p> f ) <p> Impairment of Long-lived Assets <p> In accordance with ASC 360-10 , Accounting for Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets , are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable . Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset . If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated future cash flows , an impairment charge is recognized by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset . Assets to be disposed of would be separately presented in the balance sheet and reported at the lower of the carrying amount of the fair value less costs to sell , and are no longer depreciated . The assets and liabilities of a disposed group classified as held for sale would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the balance sheet . <p> g ) <p> Foreign Currency Translation <p> The financial statements are presented in United States dollars . In accordance with ASC 830 ? Foreign Currency Translation ? , foreign denominated monetary assets and liabilities are translated into United States dollars at rates of exchange in effect at the balance sheet date . Non-monetary items , including equity , are translated at the historical rate of exchange . Revenues and expenses are translated at the average rates of exchange during the year . During the year ended July 31 , 2012 , the company had immaterial translation loss due to cash translation which was deemed to be irrelevant . <p> F-8 <p> Future Energy Corp . <p> ( An Exploration Stage Company ) <p> Notes to the Financial Statements <p> 3 . <p> Summary of Significant Accounting Policies ( continued ) <p> h ) <p> Loss per Share <p> The Company computes net loss per share in accordance with ASC 740 " Earnings per Share " . ASC 260 requires presentation of both basic and diluted earnings per share ( ? EPS ? ) on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by dividing net income ( loss ) available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period . Diluted EPS gives effect to all dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the period including stock options , using the treasury stock method , and convertible preferred stock , using the if-converted method . In computing diluted EPS , the average stock price for the period is used in determining the number of shares assumed to be purchased from the exercise of stock options or warrants . Diluted EPS excludes all dilutive potential common shares if their effect is anti-dilutive . Basic and diluted earnings per share for the year ended July 31 , 2012 are the same as any incremental common stock equivalent would be anti-dilutive . <p> i ) <p> Income Taxes <p> The Company accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability approach . Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases . Deferred tax assets and liabilities are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled . The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date . Valuation allowances are established , when necessary , to reduce deferred tax assets to the mounts expected to be realized <p> j ) <p> Revenue Recognition <p> The Company uses the sales method to account for sales of crude oil and natural gas . Under this method , revenues are recognized based on actual volumes of oil and gas sold to purchasers . The volumes sold may differ from the volumes to which the Company is entitled based on the interest in the properties . These differences create imbalances which are recognized as a liability only when the imbalance exceeds the estimate of remaining reserves . We had no production , limited revenue and no imbalances as of July 31 , 2011 . Costs associated with production are expensed in the period incurred . <p> k ) <p> Recent Accounting Pronouncements <p> We do not expect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant impact on our results of operations , financial position or cash flow . <p> 4 . <p> Oil Well Properties <p> On July 25 , 2010 , the Company entered into an agreement with an unrelated third party ( Tim Cooksey Oil , LLC ) to purchase a 1.57% working interest in unproved property located in Franklin County , Illinois for $25,000 . <p> On December 17 , 2010 , the Company purchased a 3% working interest in unproved property located in Franklin County , Illinois for $25,000 . <p> F-9 <p> Future Energy Corp . <p> ( An Exploration Stage Company ) <p> Notes to the Financial Statements <p> 5 . <p> Promissory Note ? Related Party <p> On December 8 , 2010 , the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note with the President of the Company whereby the Company borrowed $25,000 . The note is interest bearing at 2% per annum commencing December 8 , 2010 , and repayable on December 8 , 2012 . <p> On May 16 , 2011 , the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note with the President of the Company @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bearing at the rate of Royal Bank of Canada prime Interest rate plus 2% per annum commencing May 16 , 2011 , and repayable on May 16 , 2012 <p> On July 13 , 2011 , the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note with the President of the Company whereby the Company borrowed $10,000 . The note is interest bearing at the rate of Royal Bank of Canada prime Interest rate plus 2% per annum commencing July 13 , 2011 , and repayable on July 13 , 2012 <p> On December 14 , 2011 , the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note with the President of the Company whereby the Company borrowed $10,000 . The note is interest bearing at the rate of Royal Bank of Canada prime interest rate plus 2% per annum commencing December 14 , 2011 , and repayable on December 14 , 2012 . <p> On April 23 , 2012 , the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note with the President of the Company whereby the Company borrowed $5,000 . The note is interest bearing at the rate of Royal Bank of Canada @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 2012 , and repayable on April 23 , 2013 . <p> On July 8 , 2012 , the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note with the President of the Company whereby the Company borrowed $9,500 . The note is interest bearing at the rate of Royal Bank of Canada prime interest rate plus 2% per annum commencing July 8 , 2012 , and repayable on July 8 , 2013 . <p> 6 . <p> Other Related Party Transactions <p> a ) <p> As at July 31 , 2012 , the Company was indebted to the President of the Company in the amount of $516 , which is non-interest bearing , unsecured , and due on demand . <p> b ) <p> Our principal executive office space is provided by the President at no cost to the Company . <p> 7 . <p> Income Taxes <p> The Company uses the asset and liability method of accounting for deferred income taxes wherein deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effect when the differences are realized . During fiscal 2012 , the Company incurred net losses and therefore has no current tax liability . The net deferred tax asset generated by the Company ? s net operating loss carry-forwards has been fully reserved . The cumulative net operating loss carry-forward is approximately $100,042 as at July 31 , 2012 . Under current tax laws , the net operating loss is set to expire on July 31 , 2032 . <p> At July31 , 2012 and July 31 , 2012 , deferred tax assets consisted of the following : <p> 2012 <p> 2011 <p> Deferred tax assets <p> 34,014 <p> 15,535 <p> Less : valuation allowance <p> ( 34,014 ) <p> ( 15,535 ) <p> Net deferred tax assets <p> - <p> - <p> F-10 <p> Future Energy Corp . <p> ( An Exploration Stage Company ) <p> Notes to the Financial Statements <p> 8 . <p> Common Stock and warrants <p> On June 4 , 2012 , the Company filed with the Secretary of State of Nevada a Certificate of Change to its Articles of Incorporation ( the ? Certificate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Certificate of Change , the Company has : ( i ) increased the authorized number of shares of common stock to five hundred million ( 500,000,000 ) , with a par value of $0.001 per share and increased the authorized number of shares of preferred stock to two hundred million ( 200,000,000 ) , with a par value of $0.001 per share , and ( ii ) effectuated a 12-for-1 forward split ( the ? Forward Split ? ) of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock of the Company for all shareholders of record on the close of business on May 25 , 2012 . We have accounted for the stock split retroactively and have updated the outstanding common shares on the balance sheet . <p> On July 11 , 2012 , the company issued 42,385,500 units at $0.01 per share for total proceeds of $423,855 . Each unit consists of one common share and one fourth of one common shares warrant exercisable at $0.50 and one half of a common share warrant with an exercise price of $1.00 . Of the total proceeds , the company received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receivable as current asset on balance sheet . <p> Warrants <p> The Company issued 31,789,125 warrants in conjunction with the issuance of shares . The warrants had an aggregate intrinsic value of $0 at July 31 , 2012 . <p> The following is the summary of warrant transactions for the year ended July 31 , 2012 : <p> Number <p> Weighted <p> Average <p> Exercise Price <p> Outstanding at July 31 , 2011 <p> - <p> - <p> Issued <p> 31,789,125 <p> $0.83 <p> Exercised <p> - <p> - <p> Expired <p> - <p> - <p> Outstanding at July 31 , 2012 <p> 31,789,125 <p> $0.83 <p> The warrants that are issued , outstanding , and exercisable as of July 31 , 2012 are as follows : <p> Number of <p> Warrants <p> Exercise <p> Price <p> Expiration <p> Date <p> 10,596,375 <p> $ 0.50 <p> July 31,2014 <p> 21,192,750 <p> $1.00 <p> July 31,2014 <p> 9 . <p> Subsequent Event <p> On August 17 , 2012 , the company issued a note receivable for a total of $50,000 to third party , payable after one year from the issuance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Canada plus 2% interest rate . <p> On October 1 , 2012 , the company issued a note receivable for a total of $50,000 to third party , payable after one year from the issuance date . The note accrues interest at prime rate of Canada plus 2% interest rate . <p> We maintain disclosure controls and procedures , as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 ( the " Exchange Act " ) , that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded , processed , summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission 's rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management , including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer , as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure . <p> We carried out an evaluation , under the supervision and with the participation of our management , including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer , of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and procedures as of July 31 , 2012 . Based on the evaluation of these disclosure controls and procedures , and in light of the material weaknesses found in our internal controls over financial reporting , our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective . <p> Management ? s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting <p> Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting , as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f) . The Company ? s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America . <p> Because of its inherent limitations , internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements . Also , projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions , or that the degree of compliance with the policies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the participation of management , including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer , the Company conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company ? s internal control over financial reporting as of July 31 , 2012 , using the criteria established in ? Internal Control - Integrated Framework ? issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission ( " COSO " ) . <p> A material weakness is a deficiency , or combination of deficiencies , in internal control over financial reporting , such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the Company ? s annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis . In its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of July 31 , 2012 , the Company determined that there were control deficiencies that constituted material weaknesses , as described below . <p> 1 . <p> We do not have an Audit Committee ? While not being legally obligated to have an audit committee , it is the management ? s view that such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an utmost important entity level control over the Company ? s financial statement . Currently the Board of Directors acts in the capacity of the Audit Committee . <p> 2 . <p> We did not maintain appropriate cash controls ? As of July 31 , 2012 , the Company has not maintained sufficient internal controls over financial reporting for the cash process , including failure to segregate cash handling and accounting functions , and did not require dual signature on the Company ? s bank accounts . Alternatively , the effects of poor cash controls were mitigated by the fact that the Company had limited transactions in their bank accounts . <p> 3 . <p> Lack of segregation of duties . We have an inadequate number of personnel to properly implement control procedures . <p> 4 . <p> Lack of a formal review process that includes multiple levels of review from adequate personnel with requisite expertise . We do not have a functioning audit committee of directors , resulting in ineffective oversight in the establishment and monitoring of required internal controls and procedures . <p> 5 . <p> We did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 31 , 2012 , the Company retains copies of all financial data and material agreements ; however there is no formal procedure or evidence of normal backup of the Company ? s data or off-site storage of the data in the event of theft , misplacement , or loss due to unmitigated factors . <p> 13 <p> Accordingly , the Company concluded that these control deficiencies resulted in a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis by the company ? s internal controls . <p> As a result of the material weaknesses described above , management has concluded that the Company did not maintain effective internal control over financial reporting as of July 31 , 2012 , based on criteria established in Internal Control ? Integrated Framework issued by COSO . <p> Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting <p> There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with our evaluation we conducted of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of July 31 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that has materially affected , or is reasonably likely to materially affect , our internal control over financial reporting . <p> This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company ? s registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting . Managements report was not subject to attestation by the Company ? s registered public accounting firm pursuant to temporary rules of the SEC that permit the Company to provide only management ? s report in this annual report . <p> Once the Company is engaged in a business of merit and has sufficient personnel available , then our Board of Directors , in particular and in connection with the aforementioned deficiencies , will establish the following remediation measures : <p> 1 . <p> Our Board of Directors will nominate an audit committee or a financial expert on our Board of Directors in the next fiscal year . <p> 2 . <p> We will appoint additional personnel to assist with the preparation of the Company ? s monthly financial reporting , including preparation of the monthly bank reconciliations . <p> ITEM 9B . <p> OTHER @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issued a one-year Promissory Note , in the principal amount of $9,500 to Georges Paquet , the President of the Company to evidence funds previously loaned by Mr. Paquet to the Company . The $9,500 principal amount underlying the Promissory Note is due and payable on or before July 8 , 2013 and accrues interest at the rate of the Royal Bank of Canada Prime Rate plus 2% per annum . <p> On August 17 , 2012 , the Company entered into a Loan Agreement ( the ? August Loan ? ) with Marilyn Jean Media Inc . ( ? MJM ? ) , whereby the Company lent MJM funds in the principal amount of $50,000 . The $50,000 principal amount underlying the August Loan is due and payable on or before August 17 , 2013 and accrues interest at the rate of the Royal Bank of Canada Prime Rate plus 2% per annum . <p> On October 1 , 2012 , the Company entered into a Loan Agreement ( the ? October Loan ? ) with MJM , whereby the Company lent MJM funds in the principal amount of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is due and payable on or before October 1 , 2013 and accrues interest at the rate of the Royal Bank of Canada Prime Rate plus 2% per annum . <p> 14 <p> PART III <p> ITEM 10 . <p> DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE <p> Identification of Directors and Executive Officers <p> The following table sets forth the names and ages of our current directors and executive officers : <p> Name <p> Age <p> Position with the Company <p> Date of Appointment <p> Georges Paquet <p> 62 <p> President , Chief Executive Officer , <p> Chief Financial Officer , Secretary , <p> Treasurer and a Director <p> April 6 , 2010 <p> Melany Paquet <p> 37 <p> Vice President and Director <p> April 6 , 2010 <p> Mike Anderson <p> 42 <p> Director <p> September 10 , 2010 <p> Jefferson K. Villines <p> 35 <p> Director <p> December 5 , 2010 <p> Chester Ku <p> 38 <p> Director <p> June 1 , 2012 <p> The board of directors has no nominating , audit or compensation committee at this time . <p> Term of Office <p> Each of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Directors and their terms of office are at the discretion of the Board . Our officers serve until the earlier occurrence of the election of his or her successor at the next meeting of stockholders , death , resignation or removal by the Board of Directors . All of our directors hold office until the next annual general meeting of the shareholders or until their successors are elected and qualified . <p> Background and Business Experience <p> The following is a brief account of the education and business experience of our directors and executive officers during at least the past five years , indicating their principal occupations and employment during the period , and the name and principal business of the organization in which such occupations or employment were carried on . <p> Mr. Paquet has a background in accounting . Mr. Paquet worked for Caisse Populaire St. Georges as both a teller and manager from 1966 to 1972 . From 1984 to 1986 , Mr. Paquet served as a project manager for Rock Lessard Inc , a building contractor working on behalf of a multimillion dollar Hydro Quebec @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ From 1998 to 2004 Mr. Paquet served as an export , sales and public relations representative for Beauce Windows &; Doors Inc. , a manufacturing company focussed on windows and doors . In this capacity his primary function was expanding the company ? s business into the United States as well as liaising with the Federal Government of Canada for related grants . Mr. Paquet has been retired since 2004 and thus currently provides services only to the Company . He currently spends approximately 25 hours per week providing services to the Company , which represents approximately 100% of his working hours . Mr. Paquet ? s time commitment and devotion to the Company ? s operations , coupled with his diverse business experiences has led the Company to the determination that he is a good fit as an executive officer and director of the Company . <p> Melany Paquet , Vice President and Director <p> Ms. Paquet attended LaSalle College in St. Georges from 1989-1992 . From 2003 until the present , Ms. Paquet has operated a care facility out of her home . Ms. Paquet currently spends approximately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which represents approximately 10% of her working hours . Ms. Paquet is the daughter of Mr. Paquet . Ms. Paquet ? s relationship as daughter of the President of the Company , her efforts in acquiring our current working interests , and her dedication to the Company led the Company to determine she would be a good fit as an officer and director of the Company . <p> 15 <p> Mike Anderson , Director <p> Mr. Anderson obtained a double major in geology and physics from Dalhousie University in 1993 . During his time at Dalhousie , Mr. Anderson interned with Amoco Petroleum Canada in the summer of 1991 . In the summer of 1992 , Mr. Anderson worked with the Geological Survey of Canada at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography . Both appointments provided Mr. Anderson with valuable training from experienced senior scientists . Following graduation , Mr. Anderson spent several years in both North and South America performing geophysical surveys ranging from 3-D seismic exploration in the Gulf of Mexico ( 1993-1995 ) to airborne surveys over the jungles of Brazil ( 1995-2000 ) . From 2001 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a provider of consulting , engineering , and technical services worldwide , as Lead Geophysicist on environmental remediation projects where his duties included field management , unexploded ordnance ( UXO ) detection and documentation of UXO investigation studies . Mr. Anderson was employed by Risk Reduction Resources Inc ( RRR ) from February 2006 to December 2010 . RRR is a geophysical company specializing in ground-based geophysics . As Senior Geophysicist , his responsibilities included business development , data processing , analysis and interpretation of mineral and oil exploration airborne and ground geophysical data . In January 2011 , Mr. Anderson joined Mine-EOD , an environmental remediation company . As Senior Geophysicist , his responsibilities there include business development , geophysical data processing and analysis and field management and airborne geophysical surveys for mineral exploration . The Company decided Mr. Anderson would be a good director because he has more than 15 years experience in the areas of gravity , magnetic , electromagnetic , and radiometric applications in mineral exploration , petroleum exploration , and UXO detection as shown by his various work experiences . <p> Jefferson K. Villines III @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Owner of JKV Management Consulting , LLC , ( ? JKV Consulting ? ) a management consulting company which markets interests in oil and gas projects , since March of 2006 . As President of JKV Consulting . Mr. Villines ? role consists of project evaluation , management of direct marketing and supervision of day-to-day operations . His responsibilities in this position include assessing all potential investments , visiting all properties in which the company invests , and negotiating with suppliers . He has also been the President of CJT.JKV Oil Development , LLC ( ? JKV Oil Development ? ) , an asset holding company , which focuses on oil and gas interests , since its inception in February 2010 . From 2000 to 2002 , Mr. Villines worked at ESPN in Dallas , as an account executive in the marketing and advertising dept . From 2003 to 2004 , Mr. Villines worked as VP of Sales and Marketing for Northstar Energy Inc . ( ? Northstar ? ) , in Dallas , and from 2004 to 2005 , he worked as VP of Sales and Marketing for Gulftex @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dallas . Both Northstar and Gulftex are independent energy companies which operate and manage oil and gas leases , and in his positions as VP of Sales and Marketing for both companies , Mr. Villines assisted in project management , project evaluation , marketing , and sales of oil and gas leases . Mr. Villines studied Business Administration at Texas A &M; University ( 1998-1999 ) and Oklahoma State University ( 1996-1997 ) . In addition , Mr. Villines has over five years managing the promotion of developmental and exploratory oil and gas projects to private and institutional bodies , as well as providing private consultancy services to a number of independent oil and gas companies , specifically , in the field of direct marketing of working interest programs . Although his family has been involved in the oil and gas industry for over 75 years , each generation has taken a different path into the industry ; thus , Mr. Villines ? hands on expertise is invaluable in being able to ascertain and evaluate the best possible opportunities to proactively move the company forward . Mr. Villines ? extensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manage projects led the Company to the determination that he would be invaluable as a director of the Company . <p> Chester Ku , Director <p> Over the past fifteen years , Mr. Ku has gained significant experience in several different industries and has held various positions as a software developer , manager , business owner and consultant . From May 1995 to September 1996 , Mr. Ku headed the technical support team at ADP Systems Informatiques and was responsible for software development of custom accounting and payroll software . In April 1997 , Mr. Ku joined CIBC VISA as a customer service representative working with the ? help desk ? , providing second-level support and resolving escalated calls . In June of 1999 , he completed the Canadian Securities Course and joined CIBC Wealth Management working as a Registered Representative . As a Registered Representative , his primary role was providing order execution for online brokerage clients . He also obtained his Derivatives Fundamentals , Options Licensing , Professional Financial Planning and Technical Analysis certificates during that time . Mr. Ku left CIBC in 2002 and in 2004 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ online at www.astronutrition.com . During that time , Mr. Ku managed all aspects of the business including overseeing technical development , marketing , sales and product selection . In 2012 , Mr. Ku sold Astronutrition and now works as an independent consultant to start-up businesses . The Board of Directors appointed Mr. Ku as a Director of the Company on account of his diverse business experiences . <p> 16 <p> Identification of Significant Employees <p> We have no significant employees other than Georges Paquet , our President , Chief Executive Officer , Chief Financial Officer , Principal Accounting Officer , Secretary , Treasurer and Director , and Melany Paquet our Vice President and Director . We believe that until such time that we have fully developed our plan of operations we will not have any employees and that we will frequently use consultants to assist in the completion of various projects . <p> Family Relationships <p> We currently do not have any officers or directors of our company who are related to each other . <p> Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings <p> During the past ten years no director , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been involved in the following : <p> ( 1 ) <p> A petition under the Federal bankruptcy laws or any state insolvency law which was filed by or against , or a receiver , fiscal agent or similar officer was appointed by a court for the business or property of such person , or any partnership in which he was a general partner at or within two years before the time of such filing , or any corporation or business association of which he was an executive officer at or within two years before the time of such filing ; <p> ( 2 ) <p> Such person was convicted in a criminal proceeding or is a named subject of a pending criminal proceeding ( excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses ) ; <p> i . <p> Such person was the subject of any order , judgment , or decree , not subsequently reversed , suspended or vacated , of any court of competent jurisdiction , permanently or temporarily enjoining him from , or otherwise limiting , the following activities : <p> ii . <p> Acting as a futures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commodity pool operator , floor broker , leverage transaction merchant , any other person regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission , or an associated person of any of the foregoing , or as an investment adviser , underwriter , broker or dealer in securities , or as an affiliated person , director or employee of any investment company , bank , savings and loan association or insurance company , or engaging in or continuing any conduct or practice in connection with such activity ; <p> iii . <p> Engaging in any type of business practice ; or <p> iv . <p> Engaging in any activity in connection with the purchase or sale of any security or commodity or in connection with any violation of Federal or State securities laws or Federal commodities laws ; <p> ( 3 ) <p> Such person was the subject of any order , judgment or decree , not subsequently reversed , suspended or vacated , of any Federal or State authority barring , suspending or otherwise limiting for more than 60 days the right of such person to engage in any activity described in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this section , or to be associated with persons engaged in any such activity ; <p> ( 4 ) <p> Such person was found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the Commission to have violated any Federal or State securities law , and the judgment in such civil action or finding by the Commission has not been subsequently reversed , suspended , or vacated ; <p> ( 5 ) <p> Such person was found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to have violated any Federal commodities law , and the judgment in such civil action or finding by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission has not been subsequently reversed , suspended or vacated ; <p> 17 <p> ( 6 ) <p> Such person was the subject of , or a party to , any Federal or State judicial or administrative order , judgment , decree , or finding , not subsequently reversed , suspended or vacated , relating to an alleged violation of : <p> i . <p> Any Federal or State securities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ <p> Any law or regulation respecting financial institutions or insurance companies including , but not limited to , a temporary or permanent injunction , order of disgorgement or restitution , civil money penalty or temporary or permanent cease-and-desist order , or removal or prohibition order ; or <p> iii . <p> Any law or regulation prohibiting mail or wire fraud or fraud in connection with any business entity ; or <p> ( 7 ) <p> Such person was the subject of , or a party to , any sanction or order , not subsequently reversed , suspended or vacated , of any self-regulatory organization ( as defined in Section 3(a) ( 26 ) of the Exchange Act ( 15 U.S.C. 78c(a) ( 26 ) ) ) , any registered entity ( as defined in Section 1(a) ( 29 ) of the Commodity Exchange Act ( 7 U.S.C. 1(a) ( 29 ) ) ) , or any equivalent exchange , association , entity or organization that has disciplinary authority over its members or persons associated with a member . <p> Code of Ethics <p> Our board of directors has not adopted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ presently are in the exploration stage of our operations and we do not have any employees who are not also officers of the Company . We anticipate that we will adopt a code of ethics when we increase the number of our employees . <p> Audit Committee and Audit Committee Financial Expert <p> The Company does not have an audit committee or an audit committee financial expert ( as defined in Item 407 of Regulation S-K ) serving on its Board of Directors . All current members of the Board of Directors lack sufficient financial expertise for overseeing financial reporting responsibilities . The Company has not yet employed an audit committee financial expert on its Board due to the inability to attract such a person . <p> The Company intends to establish an audit committee of the board of directors , which will consist of independent directors . The audit committee ? s duties will be to recommend to the Company ? s board of directors the engagement of an independent registered public accounting firm to audit the Company ? s financial statements and to review the Company ? s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the scope , timing and fees for the annual audit and the results of audit examinations performed by the internal auditors and independent registered public accounting firm , including their recommendations to improve the system of accounting and internal controls . The audit committee will at all times be composed exclusively of directors who are , in the opinion of the Company ? s board of directors , free from any relationship which would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment as a committee member and who possess an understanding of financial statements and generally accepted accounting principles . <p> Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act <p> We do not yet have a class of equity securities registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 , as amended . Hence , compliance with Section 16(a) thereof by our officers and directors is not required . <p> 18 <p> ITEM 11 . <p> EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION <p> Summary Compensation Table <p> The following table sets forth the compensation paid to our executive officers during the twelve month periods ended July 31 , 2012 and 2011 : <p> Summary Compensation Table @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ <p> Ended <p> 12/31 <p> Salary <p> ( $ ) <p> Bonus <p> ( $ ) <p> Stock <p> Awards <p> ( $ ) <p> Option <p> Awards <p> ( $ ) <p> Non-Equity <p> Incentive <p> Plan <p> Compensation <p> ( $ ) <p> Nonqualified <p> Deferred <p> Compensation <p> Earnings <p> ( $ ) <p> All Other <p> Compensation <p> ( $ ) <p> Total <p> 2012 <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> <p> 2011 <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> 2012 <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> <p> 2011 <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> ( 1 ) <p> Georges Paquet was appointed as our president , chief executive officer , chief financial officer , secretary , treasurer and one of our directors on April 6 , 2010 . <p> ( 2 ) <p> Melany Paquet was appointed as our vice-president and director on April 6 , 2010 . <p> Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table <p> There are no employment contracts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the Company with respect to any executive officer , that would result in payments to such person because of his or her resignation , retirement or other termination of employment with the Company , or its subsidiaries , any change in control , or a change in the person ? s responsibilities following a change in control of the Company . <p> Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End <p> No named executive officer or director received any equity awards , or holds exercisable or unexercisable options , as of the years ended July 31 , 2012 and 2011 . <p> Compensation of Directors <p> Our directors receive no extra compensation for their service on our board of directors . <p> Long-Term Incentive Plans <p> There are no arrangements or plans in which we provide pension , retirement or similar benefits for directors or executive officers . <p> Compensation Committee <p> We currently do not have a compensation committee of the Board of Directors . The Board of Directors as a whole determines executive compensation . <p> The following table sets forth the amount certain information concerning the number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 24 , 2012 by : ( i ) each of our directors ; ( ii ) each of our named executive officers ; and ( iii ) each person or group known by us to beneficially own more than 5% of our outstanding shares of common stock . Unless otherwise indicated , the shareholders listed below possess sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares they own . <p> Name and Address of <p> Beneficial Owner <p> Title of Class <p> Amount and Nature of <p> Beneficial Ownership <p> Percentage <p> of Class ( 1 ) <p> Georges Paquet <p> 840 ? 23rd Street , St. Georges de Beauce , <p> Quebec , Canada G5Y 4N6 <p> Common Stock <p> 60,000,000 <p> Direct <p> 50.2% <p> Melany Paquet <p> 1784 ? 87th Street , St. Georges de Beauce , <p> Quebec , Canada G6A 1L8 <p> Common Stock <p> 17,142,852 <p> Direct <p> 14.34% <p> Mike Anderson <p> 840 ? 23rd Street , St. Georges de Beauce , <p> Quebec , Canada G5Y 4N6 <p> Common Stock <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> Jefferson K. Villines III @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , <p> Quebec , Canada G5Y 4N6 <p> Common Stock <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> Chester Ku <p> 840 ? 23rd Street , St. Georges de Beauce , <p> Quebec , Canada G5Y 4N6 <p> Common Stock <p> - <p> - <p> - <p> Directors and Executive Officers <p> ( 5 ? as a group ) <p> Common Stock <p> 77,142,852 <p> 64.54% <p> 5% Stockholders <p> Georges Paquet <p> 840 ? 23rd Street , St. Georges de Beauce , <p> Quebec , Canada G5Y 4N6 <p> Common Stock <p> 60,000,000 <p> Direct <p> 50.2% <p> Melany Paquet <p> 1784 ? 87th Street , St. Georges de Beauce , <p> Quebec , Canada G6A 1L8 <p> Common Stock <p> 17,142,852 <p> Direct <p> 14.34% <p> ( 1 ) <p> Based on 119,528.352 shares of our common stock outstanding as of October 24 , 2012 . <p> Changes in Control <p> There are no present arrangements or pledges of the Company ? s securities which may result in a change in control of the Company . <p> For purposes of determining director independence , we have applied the definitions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The OTCBB on which shares of common stock are quoted does not have any director independence requirements . The NASDAQ definition of ? Independent Officer ? means a person other than an Executive Officer or employee of the Company or any other individual having a relationship which , in the opinion of the Company ? s Board of Directors , would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director . <p> According to the NASDAQ definition , Mr. Andersen , Mr. Villines , and Mr. Ku are all independent directors because they are not officers of the Company and they are not beneficial owners of the Common Stock of the Company . <p> Related Party Transactions <p> 1 . <p> On June 30 , 2010 we issued 4,285,714 ( post-split ) shares of our common stock to our President , Georges Paquet , at a price of $0.001 and 1,428,571 ( post-split ) shares of our common stock to Melany Paquet at a price of $0.001 per share . The shares were issued to both subscribers pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 1933 on the basis that the subscribers represented to us that they were not a ? US Person ? as such term is defined in Regulation S. <p> 2 . <p> On July 15 , 2010 we issued 714,285 ( post-split ) shares of our common stock to our President , Georges Paquet , at a price of $0.001 per share . The shares were issued to Mr. Paquet pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933 and/or Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933 on the basis that Mr. Paquet represented to us that he was not a ? US Person ? as such term is defined in Regulation S. <p> 3 . <p> On December 8 , 2010 , the Company issued a two year Promissory Note in the principal amount of $25,000 to Georges Paquet , our President . The $25,000 principal amount underlying the Promissory Note is payable on or before the two year anniversary of the Note and accrues interest at the rate of the Royal Bank of Canada Prime Interest Rate plus 2% per annum . <p> 4 . <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assignment agreement with Tim Cooksey Oil pursuant to which we acquired a 1.57% working interest in the Charles Prior Project , located in Franklin County , Illinois in consideration of a payment of $25,000 . JKV Oil Development , of which our director , Mr. Villines , is the President , owns a five percent ( 5% ) working interest in the Charles Prior Project . <p> 5 . <p> On December 17 , 2010 , we entered into an assignment agreement with JKV Oil Development , pursuant to which we acquired a 3% working interest in wells located in Franklin County , Illinois in consideration of a payment of $25,000 . JKV Oil Development , of which our director , Mr. Villines , is the President , retained a fifteen percent ( 15% ) working interest in the Sesser Wells . <p> 6 . <p> On May 16 , 2011 , the Company issued a one year Promissory Note in the principal amount of $5,000 to Georges Paquet , our President . The $5,000 principal amount underlying the Promissory Note is payable on or before the one year anniversary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Royal Bank of Canada Prime Interest Rate plus 2% per annum . <p> 7 . <p> On July 13 , 2011 , the Company issued a one year Promissory Note in the principal amount of $10,000 to Georges Paquet , our President . The $10,000 principal amount underlying the Promissory Note is payable on or before the one year anniversary of the Note and accrues interest at the rate of the Royal Bank of Canada Prime Interest Rate plus 2% per annum . <p> 8 . <p> On December 14 , 2011 , the Company issued a one year Promissory Note in the principal amount of $10,000 to Georges Paquet , our President . The $10,000 principal amount underlying the Promissory Note is payable on or before the one year anniversary of the Note and accrues interest at the rate of the Royal Bank of Canada Prime Interest Rate plus 2% per annum . <p> Other than the foregoing , none of the directors or executive officers of the Company , nor any person who owned of record or was known to own beneficially more than 5% of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nor any associate or affiliate of such persons or companies , has any material interest , direct or indirect , in any transaction that has occurred during the past fiscal year , or in any proposed transaction , which has materially affected or will affect the Company . <p> 21 <p> With regard to any future related party transaction , we plan to fully disclose any and all related party transactions in the following manner : <p> <p> disclosing such transactions in reports where required ; <p> <p> disclosing in any and all filings with the SEC , where required ; <p> <p> obtaining disinterested directors consent ; and <p> <p> obtaining shareholder consent where required . <p> Review , Approval or Ratification of Transactions with Related Persons <p> We are a smaller reporting company as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are not required to provide the information under this item . <p> ITEM 14 . <p> PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES <p> Year Ended <p> July 31 , 2012 <p> Year Ended <p> July 31 , 2011 <p> Audit fees <p> $12,500 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tax fees <p> $0 <p> $0 <p> All other fees <p> $0 <p> $0 <p> Total <p> $12,500 <p> $7,150 <p> Audit Fees <p> During the fiscal year ended July 31 , 2012 , we incurred approximately $12,500 in fees to our principal independent accountants for professional services rendered in connection with the audit and review of our financial statements for fiscal year ended July 31 , 2012 . <p> During the fiscal year ended July 31 , 2011 , we incurred approximately $7,150 in fees to our principal independent accountants for professional services rendered in connection with the audit and review of our financial statements for fiscal year ended July 31 , 2011 . <p> Audit-Related Fees <p> The aggregate fees billed during the fiscal years ended July 31 , 2012 and 2011 for assurance and related services by our principal independent accountants that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of our financial statements ( and are not reported under Item 9(e) ( 1 ) of Schedule 14A ) was $0 and $0 , respectively . <p> Tax Fees <p> The aggregate fees billed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2011 for professional services rendered by our principal accountant tax compliance , tax advice and tax planning were $0 and $0 , respectively . <p> All Other Fees <p> The aggregate fees billed during the fiscal years ended July 31 , 2012 and 2011 for products and services provided by our principal independent accountants ( other than the services reported in Items 9(e) ( 1 ) through 9(e) ( 3 ) of Schedule 14A ) was $0 and $0 , respectively . <p> 22 <p> PART IV <p> ITEM 15 . <p> EXHIBITS . <p> Exhibit <p> Number <p> Description of Exhibit <p> Filing <p> 3.01 <p> Articles of Incorporation <p> Filed with the SEC on October 28 , 2010 as part of our Registration Statement on Form S-1 . <p> 3.01a <p> Certificate of Amendment dated October 5 , 2010 <p> Filed with the SEC on October 28 , 2010 as part of our Registration Statement on Form S-1 . <p> 3.01b <p> Certificate of Change <p> Filed with the SEC on June 4 , 2012 as part of our Current Report on Form 8-K . <p> 3.02 <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2010 as part of our Registration Statement on Form S-1 . <p> 10.01 <p> Assignment Agreement dated July 25 , 2010 between the Company and Tim Cooksey Oil <p> Filed with the SEC on October 28 , 2010 as part of our Registration Statement on Form S-1 . <p> 10.02 <p> Operating Agreement dated July 14 , 2010 between the Company and Tim Cooksey Oil <p> Filed with the SEC on October 28 , 2010 as part of our Registration Statement on Form S-1 . <p> 10.03 <p> Assignment Agreement dated December 17 , 2010 between the Company and JKV Oil Development <p> Filed with the SEC on April 6 , 2011 as part of our Registration Statement on Form S-1/A . <p> 10.04 <p> Promissory Note between the Company and Georges Paquet dated December 8 , 2010 <p> Filed with the SEC on April 6 , 2011 , as part of our Registration Statement on Form S-1/A . <p> 10.05 <p> Promissory Note between the Company and Georges Paquet dated May 16 , 2011 <p> Filed with the SEC on August 22 , 2011 as part of our Registration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between the Company and Georges Paquet dated July 13 , 2011 <p> Filed with the SEC on August 22 , 2011 as part of our Registration Statement on Form S-1/A . <p> 10.07 <p> Promissory Note between the Company and Georges Paquet dated December 14 , 2011 . <p> Filed with the SEC on February 6 , 2012 as part of our Registration Statement on Form S-1/A . <p> 10.08 <p> Promissory Note between the Company and Georges Paquet dated April 23 , 2012 . <p> Filed with the SEC on May 1 , 2012 as part of our Amended Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q/A . <p> 10.09 <p> Promissory Note between the Company and Georges Paquet dated July 8 , 2012 . <p> CEO and CFO Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act <p> Filed herewith . <p> 101 . INS* <p> XBRL Instance Document <p> Filed herewith . <p> 101 . SCH* <p> XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document <p> Filed herewith . <p> 101 . CAL* <p> XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document <p> Filed herewith . <p> 101 . LAB* <p> XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ <p> XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document <p> Filed herewith . <p> 101 . DEF* <p> XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document <p> Filed herewith . <p> *Pursuant to Regulation S-T , this interactive data file is deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933 , is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 , and otherwise is not subject to liability under these sections . <p> 23 <p> SIGNATURES <p> Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 , the Registrant caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned , thereunto duly authorized . <p> Pursuant to the requirement of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 , this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant

@@5031641 <h> Taking it to the field <p> Fall is in the air and that means crisp mornings , school buses on the road , Holiday decorations at the mall and yes , more NFL games then you can imagine ! Yesterday the announcement of the Bing partnership with the Seattle Seahawks went out and we could not be more excited . Bing is going to be on the practice field ( check out the practice jerseys for this year ) and if you go to a game at Seahawk stadium expect to see Bing in a few places there too . <p> In honor of our partnership with the Seahawks , we wanted to remind you of our NFL instant answer which includes NFL stats , game scores , schedules and player information . You can also search on players , looks like Matt and the Hawks are off to a great start with a shutout last week ... sweet ! And if you want to take your player knowledge up another notch , check out the Bing Visual search gallery for NFL players ... amazing ! <p> Good luck in all your fantasy football leagues and neighborhood game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ field ( I mean you will be seeing us ) . <p> Kristin - Bing <p> *As mentioned above , Visual Search is still in beta . Visual Search is currently only available in the US and as we refine this feature we

@@5031741 <p> administer , be in charge , be in driver 's seat , be in the saddle , be on duty , be responsible for , boss , call the play , call the shots , chaperon , conduct , control , crack the whip , deal with , direct , handle , inspect , keep an eye on , look after , overlook , oversee , preside over , quarterback , ride herd on , run , run the show , run things , sit on

@@5031841 <p> Hester , the long-time Chicago Bears return man , is the stuff of nightmares for NFL kickers and punter . <p> " He 's fearless , he 's willing to take risks with the ball , and he knows exactly what to do to get the ball up the field , " Harris said . " He 's the best ever . " <p> It 's tough to argue that assessment . Hester is the NFL 's all-time leader in touchdown returns , bringing back 12 punts and five kickoffs for scores in his first six seasons . He 's done it twice against the Lions , once with a kickoff in 2007 and on a punt last season . <p> Kassim Osgood , a gunner on punt coverage , will be one of the first men down the field trying to drop Hester before he can find a crease . Osgood knows Hester does n't need long to identify an opening . <p> " He 's daring , " Osgood said . " He 'll take a chance on a gap that most people think would close , and it will stay open long enough for him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to negate Hester 's abilities is to simply punt out of bounds every time . Logically , if he does n't touch the ball , he ca n't make an impact . Unfortunately , effectively executing that strategy is easier said than done . <p> " Everybody in golf tries to hit the fairway , " coach Jim Schwartz said . " Sometimes they hit it in the rough , sometimes they hit in the woods . I 'm talking about guys on the PGA tour , guys in major tournaments and things like that . People watching say , ' Jeez , why ca n't he hit in the fairway ? ' There 's definitely that element to it . " <p> Harris said on a perfect day , kicking it out of bounds with good distance is easier , but he could n't guarantee boots longer than 25 yards when factoring in the typically unpredictable swirling winds in Solider Field . Considering his career net average is 35.7 yards , that 's a potential 10-yard swing in field position with each punt . <p> If the opportunity to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ players do n't view it as conceding or a sign of weakness . <p> " No , not at all , " Osgood said . " It 's all a matter of strategy . Most people want to limit his touches . " <p> Harris agrees . <p> " He has a higher percentage chance than anyone else to take it back for a touchdown . If you can eliminate a shot on goal , or

@@5031941 can follow authors and sections , track comment threads you 're interested in , and more . <p> Kristen Stewart at the Snow White and the Huntsman Australian premiere on June 19 in Sydney <p> Photo by Marianna Massey/Getty Images . <p> There was something awfully predictable about the news that , in the wake of her admission that she had an affair with the film 's director Rupert Sanders , Kristen Stewart will no longer be the main character in subsequent Snow White and the Huntsman movies , if she plays a role in them at all . It 's still unclear what , exactly , is going to happen with the burgeoning franchise after the initial movie made $391 million at the box office earlier this year . The Hollywood Reporter initially said that the movies that follow will be treated as if they 're a spinoff focusing on Chris Hemsworth 's Huntsman and that Stewart will not be involved in any capacity , though Sands may be back to direct . And the Los Angeles Times later reported that she could return as a supporting character . Either way , her demotion is a depressing referendum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stewart , and the end of a potential female-centered action fantasy franchise . <p> Back when the news broke of Stewart and Sanders ' affair , I wrote that Stewart is , more than any other actress of her cohort , defined by her roles as a fairy tale princess , and the female half of eternal love stories , particularly as Bella Swann in the Twilight franchise . That she was in a long-term relationship with her Twilight co-star Robert Pattinson extended the on-screen fantasy into the real world . But if Stewart is unqualified to play a pure romantic heroine because she lapsed in her committment to her relationship , why is Sanders , who after all , unlike Stewart , was married with children , still qualified to orchestrate a fairy tale ? It 's patently absurd to suggest that actors and directors need to bring relevant life experience to their projects ( if true , there would be a lot more women helming Hollywood productions ) and live according to the morals of their characters . But if we 're going to apply that standard to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sanders going professionally scot-free and keeping his job while she loses hers . <p> And that she lost this job is particularly frustrating . This has been a year where three movies with women as tough action heroes made more than $300 million at the worldwide box office : The Hunger Games , Prometheus , and Snow White and the Huntsman . Even though The Avengers still ca n't muster a superpowered woman as a full-fledged member of the team , Anne Hathaway made off with Bruce Wayne 's mother 's necklace and much of The Dark Knight Rises as potential spin-off subject Selina Kyle . It seemed like a moment where we could expect years of female-lead action franchises . A world where bow-wielding Katniss Everdeen was fighting in the Hunger Games , Elizabeth Shaw was exploring the mysteries of the universe , and Snow White was strapping on armor and leading her troops into battle would be one with a lot more to offer women who love action movies than the current crop of muscle-bound boys . Stewart 's demotion is a reminder of how tenuous that promise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , whether personal or at the box offices , seem more likely to lead to loss of opportunities for them than for men . <p> But as frustrating as this is , maybe it 's an opportunity for Stewart to reinvent herself , free from fans ' expectations that her relationship with Pattinson be as perfect as Edward and Bella 's , free from the obligations of a franchise . She 's never seemed particularly comfortable with the burden of Hollywood princesshood . Part of Stewart 's appeal to me has always been her decidedly undone hair , her comfort in jeans , her skepticism of the Hollywood star machine . Heavy is the head that wears the crown , especially when you 're expected to keep it on in private as well as in public . It 's time for Stewart to trade it in as she figures

@@5032041 <p> When Bryan met Jaime on a business trip six years ago , they immediately hit it off . The only problem was that he lived in Boston and she in Arkansas . Still , a long-distance friendship soon blossomed into a long-distance romance . Jaime , a single mom of three , knew the sacrifices Bryan would have to make if they were ever to marry , but on their first Christmas together , Bryan popped the question . " He told me how much he loved me and the kids , " she recalls -- and the rest is history ! <p> Photo Credit : Meg Hamilton of Rodeo and Co . <p> Featured : Discover the new packages designed exclusively for Palladium

@@5032141 <h> Who is Jill Kelley , socialite pal of Petraeus , Allen ? <p> Michael Winter , USA TODAY Share <p> Comments <p> Jill Kelley leaving her Tampa , Fla. , home Tuesday near MacDill Air Force Base , where the U.S. Central Command and Special Operations Command are located . She met Gens . David Petraeus and John Allen while serving as an unpaid social liaison at the base . ( Photo : Chris O'Meara , AP ) <h> Story Highlights <p> Volunteer " social ambassador " met top generals at MacDill AFB <p> She and surgeon husband threw " lavish " parties for military VIPs <p> 7:52AM EST November 14. 2012 - Who is Jill Kelley , the Tampa socialite at the heart of investigations involving two of the most powerful military men in the world ? <p> Her call to an FBI agent about harassing e-mails unwittingly exposed an extramarital affair by a family friend -- Gen. David Petraeus , who subsequently resigned as head of the CIA . That investigation has now ensnared the top American commander in Afghanistan , Gen. John Allen , for " potentially inappropriate " communications with Kelley -- e-mails described @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an intermediary " for Allen said that he and his wife are friends with Kelley and her husband , and that most of the e-mails were sent from Kelley to Allen 's wife . <p> Allen , the commander of the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan , has denied any wrongdoing , the official told AP . <p> How did the 37-year-old Kelley , born to a prominent Lebanese-American family in Philadelphia , land in the international spotlight ? <p> She positioned herself at the center of the military social scene , acting as a kind of party ambassador for U.S. Central Command and Special Operations Command at MacDill Air Force Base , near the two-story brick mansion where she lives with her surgeon husband , Scott Kelley , and their three children . <p> The Kelleys became friends with Petraeus when he was CENTCOM commander there from 2008 to 2010 , and threw parties described as " lavish . " <p> Through her volunteer work at the base , Jill Kelley and Petraeus exchanged near-daily e-mails and instant messages , two of his former staffers told AP . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regularly monitored and were not romantic in tone , they said . <p> Two years ago , at a soiree for Tampa 's Gasparilla Pirate Festival , Petraeus arrived with a 28-cop motorcycle escort , the Tampa Bay Times reported . A photo shows Petraeus and his wife , Holly , with the Kelleys and Jill 's identical twin sister , Natalie Khawam , wearing party beads , with a pirate flag in the background . <p> The VIP invite list for the 2011 Army Ball shows the Kelleys rubbing elbows with top-level officers , politicians and other civic leaders , Business Insider reports . <p> The Petraeus and Kelley families were described as close , and they spent holidays together at Petraeus ' residence in Washington , D.C. The families have spent the holidays together and celebrated Christmas together last year , according to Petraeus ' daughter Anne 's personal blog , ABC News says . <p> The Washington Post writes that Jill Kelley 's brother , David Khawam , said that his sister " had deep affection " for the Petraeuses and that " she never had anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ " They were truly good friends for years , " he told the Post . <p> As they entertained the military elite , the Kelleys were piling up substantial debt , the Post writes , citing court records.Banks began foreclosure proceedings on two properties -- including a three-story office building , the Tampa Bay Times says -- and other creditors sued them for tens of thousands of dollars in credit card debt . <p> In May of this year , Kelley began receiving harassing e-mails , law enforcement have said . The FBI investigation began with five to 10 anonymous e-mails , some that appeared to accuse her of an inappropriate relationship . Petraeus was not named , The Wall Street Journal reported . <p> FBI agents traced the e-mails to Paula Broadwell , and then found that she was exchanging " intimate " messages with a private Gmail account that Petraeus had opened under an alias . The revelations catapulted Kelley into the spotlight . <p> Born Jill Khawam , Kelley grew up in northeast Philadelphia and lived in the area until her mid-20s , according to the Philadelphia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a restaurant across the Delaware River in Voorhees , N.J. <p> " Since she moved to Tampa , she was raising money for different politicians and so-forth since the coalition forces were based in Tampa , " her brother told WTSP-TV . " It was a natural step for her to help raise money and run fundraisers and so-forth . " <p> Kelley 's twin is a Tampa lawyer who works on health care fraud and whistle-blower cases , according to her LinkedIn profile , which was deleted Monday . <p> In 2003 , the sisters competed in Food Network cook-offs for the show Food Fight . <p> Kelley has not yet spoken with the media . Sunday night , she and her husband released a statement . <p> " We and our family have been friends with Gen. Petraeus and his family for over We respect his and his family 's privacy and want the same for us and our three children . " <p> " She does not work as a real consul . They play a role to improve the relationship between the ROK and the U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kelley helped to get support for the Korea-U.S . Free Trade Agreement and she arranged meetings between the ROK Ambassador to Washington and local businessmen when the ROK Ambassador visited the Tampa area . " <p> U.S. Army Gen. David Petraeus shakes hands with his biographer , Paula Broadwell , at an undisclosed location on July 13 , 2011 . Petraeus resigned from his post on Nov. 9 , citing an extramarital affair with Broadwell . ISAF via Getty Images <p> Holly Petraeus hugs her husband , former U.S. Army general David Petraeus , after he was sworn in as director of the Central Intelligence Agency on Sept. 9 , 2012 , in the Roosevelt Room at the White House . Mandel Ngan , AFP/Getty Images <p> Holly Petraeus , assistant director for the Office of Servicemember Affairs , speaks during a news conference in December 2011 at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville , N.C. John Althouse , The Jacskonville Daily News , via AP <p> Paula Broadwell , author of the David Petraeus biography " All In , " poses with her book on Jan. 15 , 2012 , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ director of the CIA , admitting to an extramarital affair with Broadwell . T. Ortega Gaines , The Charlotte Observer , via AP <p> FBI agent Frederick W. Humphries speaks at a news conference on July 27 , 2005 , in Seattle . Humphries has been identified as the agent Jill Kelley contacted to complain about harassing emails sent by Paula Broadwell . Kevin P. Casey , AP <p> A photograph obtained by The Seattle Times shows FBI special agent Frederick W. Humphries posing with target dummies at an unknown location on Sept. 10 , 2010 . Humphries sent the photograph to friend Jill Kelley and others , including a Seattle Times reporter , in an email with the subject line , " Which one is Fred ? " The Seattle Times via AP <p> U.S. Marine Gen. John Allen , left , and U.S. Army Gen. David Petraeus , top U.S. commander in Afghanistan and incoming CIA director , greet Defense Secretary Leon Panetta on July 9 , 2011 , in Kabul

@@5032241 <h> Browse Classifieds <h> Browse Film <h> The Saints are California bound , dreaming of reaching the 500 mark for the first time this season . If you ask the Black and Gold running backs , they 'll tell you that continuing to focus on the run game could help keep the team 's winning ways . <h> Steven Spielberg and Daniel Day-Lewis bring the Great Emancipator to life . <h> The Raiders lost last week 55-20 and have only three wins this season . Easy win this week for the Saints right ? Wrong says assistant head coach Joe Vitt . With only seven games left in the season , every

@@5032341 <h> The San Francisco Giants Are Going To The World Series <p> The Giants trounced the Cardinals by a score of 9-0 , completing an impressive comeback from a 3-1 series deficit and managing to kill the previously immortal St. Louis Cardinals . Even a team as resilient as this Cardinals team can only be carried so far by the likes of Daniel Descalso , Pete Kozma , and Allen Craig . <p> The game was decided in the third inning , in which the Cardinals suffered a death by a thousand cuts . The Giants plated five runs in that inning after stringing together a series of lightly struck yet well-placed balls . The big blow came courtesy of Hunter Pence 's weird , broken-bat liner that somehow turned into a bases-clearing double . The poor Cardinals kept marching new pitchers up to the mound ( they used three in that inning ) and the Giants just kept slapping balls into empty spaces , taking walks , and beating out grounders with a cruel persistence . <p> Matt Cain did n't pitch brilliantly , but he got through five-and-two-thirds innings without allowing a run and struck out four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cardinals the rest of the way , allowing just two hits over the final three-and-a-third innings . The only real drama came in the ninth inning , when torrential rains threatened to make the last half inning unplayable . <p> Marco Scutaro continued to be incapable of making an out , collecting three more hits and a walk while pushing his postseason batting average to an even .500 . He was predictably named the series MVP , but none are more responsible for the Giants ' success in this series than Barry Zito and Ryan Vogelsong . Not every team can count on two mediocre starters to pitch as brilliantly as they did in back-to-back elimination games . <p> And so the stage is set for a World Series that we hope will be at least moderately entertaining . The Giants pitching staff will attempt to match the singular brilliance of Justin Verlander , Angel Pagan will continue to glower , and the lovably rotund Pablo Sandoval will be pitted against Detroit 's squadron of equally chubby yet decidedly more surly fat dudes . Game 1

@@5032441 <h> Bowles ready to step into spotlight <p> PHILADELPHIA ? Todd Bowles agreed to become the Eagles ? interim defensive coordinator during an early Tuesday morning breakfast . <p> There was no hint of what was to come until Bowles hit the dining area . <p> ? I just got off the treadmill and went in the cafeteria , ? Bowles said . ? It ? s my morning ritual . I get here about 5:30 and I ? ll work out with Coach ( Duce ) Staley and Coach ( Mike ) Caldwell . Then I ? ll go get something to eat . He called me up ( to his office ) and that ? s when I found out. ? <p> For Bowles , it was less dramatic than taking over as interim head coach of the Dolphins when they canned Tony Sparano last season . <p> ? He said he ? s going to go with his gut and he felt it was the right thing to do , ? Bowles said of Reid . ? I sat in his seat for three games last year and being a head coach is not easy . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time and hope they become popular . It ? s no different than everybody else that has to make decisions when you ? re in that seat . You ? ve got to make that call . That was a call he made , and I don ? t think he had any help from anybody . It ? s just something that he told me. ? <p> Bowles , 48 , has been around the block . Undrafted out of Temple in 1986 , he intercepted 16 passes in nine NFL seasons , including eight with the Washington Redskins . Bowles started at safety for the Redskins ? Super Bowl XXII championship team . In Washington he was influenced by Richie Petitbon , one of the top NFL assistants of all time . <p> Later Bowles was schooled by Hall of Fame defensive back Emmitt Thomas , the defensive coordinator of the Eagles during the Ray Rhodes era as head coach ( 1995-98 ) . Castillo got his start as an NFL coach with the Eagles during the Rhodes regime . <p> Possibly the biggest influence on Bowles was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dallas and followed him to Miami . <p> ? Bill kind of taught me to see the whole game and how to see the team as a whole , ? Bowles said . ? He always wanted me to learn more than my position . The biggest thing he taught me was at the end of a game and a loss , the people who take the loss the hardest are the coaches . The players can forget about it in two or three days , the head coach has to stand in front of you guys and the defensive coaches are ticked because they know what really happened. ? <p> Bowles was in the mix as the successor to Sean McDermott , fired as Eagles defensive coordinator after the 2010 season . The Eagles were denied permission to speak with him , among other numerous candidates that offseason . <p> ? When I tried to interview him before to be a coordinator here , I had heard great things about him , ? Reid said . ? Then I had a chance to interview him and now I ? @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think he can do that . I like the way he worked with Juan . He handled that the right way . He didn ? t try to come in and cut Juan ? s legs out from under him or any of that . He came in and worked with him and they had a good working relationship . I appreciated the way he went about his business and how he handled the other coaches and the players . I think the people that have worked with him surely have had a lot of confidence in him and there are some that have been very close to me and so I put a little trust in that. ? <p> It ? s early , but Bowles comes off philosophically as a guy who plays sound , aggressive defense with a minimum of risk . <p> Bowles doesn ? t seem to be nearly the blitzer McDermott was or as conservative at bringing extra pass rushers as Castillo . <p> Above all , Bowles is going to get after what he feels is an underachieving group of players . <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said . ? We ? re as talented as anybody in the league . But we ? ve got to work together and we ? ve got to put it together and we ? ve got to make sure that each

@@5032541 <p> Whilst I 'm still making some changes to the goal commitment ebook , I got an inspiration to write about a subject that is very important yet not so much has been written about it . It is , namely , You do n't have to do anything you do n't want or like . <p> Sometimes when some of my friends or even people seeking my advice complain that they have to go to work five days a week , I can not help but ask : <p> ? So why do you do that if you do n't like it ? ? <p> ... and in almost all cases , I get the answer : <p> ? Because I have to. ? <p> That 's the wrong answer . You do n't have to do anything you do n't like . Nobody forces you to do this or that because it is only up to you to decide what to do . It was your decision to start working for some company and it is up to you to continue working there or to quit . <p> Sometimes people thoughtlessly get themselves into all sorts of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Then they focus on the created bondage and fail to see the obvious way out . <p> But there is always a way out . And even if you do n't see one , you can simply raise your standards and demand of life what you feel you deserve . This always works wonders if you do it for long enough . <p> That 's what happens when you decide to raise your standards and commit to your decisions . Life must eventually give what you ask for , but only if you do n't give up asking for the best out of it . <p> So no , there is absolutely nothing in this world that you have to do . You can choose what you want to do . You do n't have to stay in a relationship that does not work ; You do n't have to suffer from a controlling boss ; You do n't have to be with friends who only use you . You can quit absolutely everything you do n't like and do something you love instead . <p> But what keeps people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . Fear stops the creativity that every person has and dooms them to failure . People who fear can not succeed because they are taking action with the wrong intention that creates failure rather than opportunities . <p> You must have faith that the change you are going to make in your life will bring amazing results . If you have faith that it will , it has to . At no circumstances allow fear to enter your mind as it will destroy all the good that is awaiting you . <p> Never dwell on the feeling of fear and other negativity and consciously make yourself think positively . It will become habitual if you keep doing that . <p> Sometimes making radical changes is the only way to wealth and success to some people . I have in mind people who talk that they are someday going to make a major change but do n't do anything to make their words their reality . The only way for such people to succeed is to make a massive change and then they will take action because they will have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or lose their homes . <p> You may have read in some books about a phenomenon that happens to people who lose everything , make a massive change or are in some tragedy ? they are introduced to their other selves who know all the answers . They come into contact with their spiritual side and become aware of the exact things they should do to get themselves out of the poverty and misery into the abundance , health and success . <p> Of course , you can change gradually and surely , but saying no to the things you do which do n't make you happy and making a big change immediately will get you where you want to be much faster . <p> Remember the massive change that you made in your life in the past . As you see , it always turns out to be beneficial . For example , if you decided to quit the job which sapped energy from you , you soon found a great position within a much better company . If you decided to end the dead relationship which dragged on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dreams . That always happens , it is as though the universe rewards you for your courage . <p> So no , you do n't have to do anything you do n't like . Nobody forces you to take any kind of action , it is only you and your convictions that keep you stuck . You can change this anytime you want and the best time to do that is NOW . <h> Get FREE Gifts <h> About Simona Rich <p> My name is Simona Rich and I help people improve themselves through the articles and products of this website . Although I have found my life 's purpose and now I spend my time traveling throughout India and sharing my knowledge , my

@@5032641 <p> Thanks For Visiting And Be Sure To Tell All Your Friends . Close To The Edge signals the start of some very long songs . The song " Close To The Edge " is actually split up into 4 parts , but are actually one complete song . These types of songs are a nightmare for the rock and roll radio stations . But on more than one occassion . I have heard my favorite station in Philly , WMMR(93.3) play " Close To The Edge " in it 's entirety . The artwork shown depicts the end of the Earth . I hope you will enjoy the

@@5032741 <p> But the income threshold for this exclusive group changes every year , largely with the performance of the stock market , experts said . <p> In 2007 , when times were good on Wall Street , one needed to have an adjusted gross income of more than $424,000 to get into the highest rank . But the stock market decline in recent years has helped lower that bar back to a level not seen since 2002 . <p> " The further up you go , the wider swings you see , " said Pete Sepp , spokesman for the National Taxpayers Union . " They have a great deal of wealth sunk into the markets , which can vary quite widely . " <p> While much of the wealthy 's income comes from capital gains on investments , bonuses on the job can also give people the needed boost . <p> These folks , many of whom work only blocks from where protesters are gathering in Zuccotti Park , made an average salary of just over $311,000 in 2009 , according to the state Comptroller 's Office . ( This figure does not take into account certain income @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ) <p> A separate study found that financial professionals made up about 14% of the top rank in 2005 . <p> Executives , managers and supervisors working outside of finance accounted for 31% , the largest share , according to an analysis by Jon Bakija of Williams College , Adam Cole of the Treasury Department and Bradley Heim of Indiana University . Medical professionals came in at 15.7% , while lawyers made up 8.4% . <p> Over time , the Top 1% has claimed a bigger share of the income pie . In 2007 , they earned 22.8% of the nation 's income , more than double the amount in 1986 , according to IRS data . The recession has since brought that slice down to just under 17% for 2009 . <p> " The higher up the income distribution you go , the more your income rose and the larger the share of total income gains went to your group , " said Roberton Williams , a senior fellow at the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center . <p> But as corporate profits and productivity have increased , workers are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New York University economics professor who specializes in income inequality . That 's helping spark the movement , which has spread across the country . <p> " There is a lot of anger and it 's for a very good reason , " Wolff said . " If all of the income gain goes to the top , there 's not much left to go to the rest of the people . " <p> Correction : An earlier version of this story included an incorrect timeframe for IRS income data .

@@5032841 <p> And make no mistake : This book came out of nowhere . It started as Twilight fanfiction , then was released as an e-book and POD paperback by Writers ' Coffee Shop in Australia . From there it managed to attract so much word-of-mouth attention and sales it was acquired for a rumored near-million dollars by Vintage Books , part of Random House , and has gone on to aforementioned further massive success . <p> The publishing industry did not see this one coming . I think it 's safe to say that virtually no one did . Even five years ago it 's hard to see how this book would have rocketed to such success so quickly , if would have found its way to publication at all ( I 'm guessing it would n't have ) . <p> But note that Fifty Shades of Grey needed a publisher to get truly big . Publishers may not have seen it coming , but they caught up to it very quickly . I would n't use this as an opportunity to sneer at publishers . The industry 's role as gatekeeper is changing quickly , it 's likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ past and cared too much about writing quality , but they 're still making money on this hand over fist . <p> 3 ) It 's not as bad people say it is <p> Given the howls have accompanied this book 's success and the snarky takedowns , I was really expecting drivel . <p> It 's not drivel . It 's not Shakespeare , but from a prose perspective I would call it competently written . <p> Yes , there are writerly tics , yes there are elements that are implausible , yes yes OMG a helicopter called Charlie Tango , more on all that in a minute . But the end of the world for books this is not . <p> I 've read worse . <p> 4 ) That said ... <p> I 'm not exactly an expert , but I can see why some people have wondered aloud if this is one step back for feminism . Much of the book hinges on very confused 21-year-old virginal Anastasia , seemingly plucked straight out of the 1950s , wondering whether this 27-year-old experienced , **26;9778;TOOLONG self-made billionaire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I mean really really really likes her . <p> Their times apart consist mainly of Anastasia confusedly spurning the advances of other men who are interested in her , talking herself out of the notion that Christian Grey no I mean really likes her , and finding new reasons to feel jealous about his past , aided and impeded by both her subconscious and inner goddess ( separate voices ! ) , who alternately scold her and high five her for her adventurousness . Anastasia has few thoughts , feelings , emotions , or ambitions regarding anything other than how much Christian Grey actually truly no I mean really likes her and whether she can abide by the terms of the written contract and tortured legalese ( in more ways than one ) that governs their relationship . <p> Christian Grey is the type of person who will scare Anastasia to death then introduce her to his mom , leave her bruised and then soulfully play the piano , all the while being so stricken by his attraction for Anastasia ( including , it ca n't be said enough times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he is willing to break all sorts of previously unbendable rules , such as being affectionate and sleeping in the same bed as her until , spoiler , whiting this part out , select it with your cursor if you want to read this : she concludes after a savage spanking that much as the great Meat Loaf sang , she would do anything for love but she wo n't do that . <p> Well . At least pending the sequels . <p> This , ladies and gentlemen , is one of the very most popular books of all time . <p> 5 ) So , um , why is it so popular ? <p> Needless to say , I am not exactly the target audience for this book . <p> But even I can see how Fifty Shades of Grey fits neatly into a very old archetype that continues to resonate in our culture . The aloof , successful , mysterious , wildly attractive rogue who shows interest in a woman despite her initial resistance and even after that man warns the woman about himself : It 's not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jane Eyre to Pride and Prejudice to Twilight to Fifty Shades of Grey and countless other iterations . It 's a new spin on a very old trope : romantic entanglement with a Byronic hero . <p> I also do n't think it 's only women who are prone to stories of an ardent and attractive suitor arriving to shake up their life , as the manic pixie dream girl movie genre can attest . Many heterosexual guys seemingly want a hot girl to come along and take care of everything as well , preferably when she 's played by Natalie Portman or Zooey Deschanel . <p> Fifty Shades of Grey may not break new ground , but surely it benefited from being released in the Kindle / iPad era ( where onlookers ca n't easily see/judge what you 're reading ) , it gave an urbane veneer to a romance genre that very often skews rural/suburban , and if you 'll excuse the metaphor , Twilight may well have primed the pump for a book that maintains the same archetypal romantic dynamic while allowing its protagonists to consummate their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ toward chartering new gender and relationship dynamics with more sensitive guys and greater equality there 's some appetite to escape into a story with a less complicated and familiar throwback to a dominant man and submissive woman . Maybe we 've become such a sexually open society people were ready for the needle of mainstream edginess to be moved a little farther over . Maybe Christian Grey and his dorkily named helicopter are just that hot . <p> The " book " ( notice i use quotes ) is only popular because when it was posted on Fanfiction(dot)net it had over 50,000 reviews . The Writers coffee shop solicits popular fanfic writers to publish their fics , then use their readers to make the fanfics sell and end up on the new york times . <p> Have n't read it , but from what I understand , it 's mostly a book about dirty ( in the best possible sense of the word ) sex . <p> My two cents : Women were taught for a million years to suppress their sexuality . Men were n't . Now , generations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ embrace sex . And , in our world today , ( especially young women ) wear their sexuality as a badge of honor . <p> I 'm a college professor . Many students follow me on Twitter , so I follow them back . These women are n't readers , but almost all of them read 50 Shades , posted pictures of them reading it at the pool , tweeted how much they loved it , etc . <p> In my opinion , it 's not about the book itself . It 's what the book represents . Older women may have been hiding it on their e-readers , but younger women were flaunting it . <p> Trust me , these young women talk about sex on Twitter WAY MORE than any of my male students . ( One former student recently posted that her favorite flavor of popsicle was slang for male genitalia . We 're living through a cultural shift , and books that tap into that will be wildly popular . <p> Because EL James already had an audience , she went from fan fiction to her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ filled that gap for Twilight readers who wanted something saucier and were just a little in love with the MCs from the movie version . Kudos to EL for getting MOTU published under Fifty Shades . She worked hard for it . Let 's not think this was an overnight sensation . <p> I wonder if " random " bestsellers are made from books that people want to talk about . In order to talk about a book -- even if it 's only to vent loudly with all your complaints about the absurdity -- you need other people to have read it , which means you need to convince your friends to read it . I have n't read Fifty Shades , but I know with both Twilight and Hunger Games , I read them because friends told me to and then I told friends to read them so we could talk about them . It was n't that I loved Twilight -- I thought it was a horrible message for teenage girls , blah-blah-blah . But I still convinced at least two or three people to read it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ least that many people to read it , probably several more , so I could talk to them about what made Katniss a great heroine and why she was different and whether she was a new archetype in female characters , etc . Funny , thinking back , a friend sent me a UK book once that she 'd picked up on a layover , Harry Potter and the Philosopher 's Stone , and I talked up that book to everyone I knew because I wanted to discuss the layers and the descriptions and sense of humor . Obviously , that 's not the case for all bestsellers , but it might explain some of the more unusual ones . <p> I do n't think we should ignore the brilliance of the cover design , which has changed the covers of erotica books forever . That understated symbol of male power , the simple necktie--in subtle shades of gray instead of screaming pink flesh tones--made the book LOOK respectable . It also appealed to what really turns women on , which is power , not little Magic Mike outfits . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that understood women 's fantasies . <p> When you call something " not that bad " and , again , " I 've read worse " with the same breath as noting that it made a commercial splash in publishing the likes of which all the National Book Awards Finalists together will not make in a hundred years , you have affirmed that the dichotomy between art and commerce is getting ever larger . <p> I venture a guess that this is a case of people purchasing the book because of the hype , but not necessarily finding it to be their cup of tea . Harry Potter has 5951 customer reviews on Amazon , with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 , while Fifty Shades has 13,840 reviews with an overall rating of 3.2 . My quick analysis of those statistics tell me that people are obviously snatching it up left and right , not necessarily enjoying it . I 've talked to many people who have bought/read the book and I have yet to meet one who thought it was a decent story and many did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ POPULAR ? I 'd say a better word is notorious . I believe people are buying the book to see what the fuss is about and why people like us keep talking about it . <p> I think its two fold : First , EL James writes about Mr Grey like she 's in love with him and is indulging in her own personal fantasy . Same with Stephenie Meyer writing about Edward Cullen . This makes it easy for the reader to also fall in love with them and hence , become addicted . Secondly , both authors play to the fantasy of the plain , everyday woman ( ie the reader ) being worshipped and adored by an extraordinary male who is on the face of it , out of their league . Because the female protagonists Bella and Anastsasia are just like us , it gives us hope that the same could happen to us too . <p> 1 ) Its vast popularity made it " cool " to say you were reading it , whereas usual readers of erotica romance keep it to themselves -- hence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The books popularity attracted new readers to the genre who never knew they could read " porn " and like it . I had so many FB friends taking pictures of them reading the book by the pool or talking about reading it this past year . Then some would ask for similar books like it . <p> 3 ) The book cover . The usual erotic romance novels have the embarrassing covers with the half naked man on the cover embracing a female . <p> Honestly , I hated the book . I could n't get over the immaturity of the main character . I do n't what anything to do with an erotica book whose main character reads like a 16 year old . <p> Why is it popular ? 1 . People read between the lines . I 've had discussions with a friend who liked the book and her interpretation and mine are totally different . She saw romance , I saw domestic violence , and I do n't mean the physicality of the book , but the emotional . <p> 2 . One of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do things she did n't fully want to do in hopes she could change him . I 'm not sure where this came from , but many girls/women suffer from the idea that men show true love by changing for the woman . The bad guy starts of exciting , and then we try to change all the things that we were excited about . And when they give those up , it must be true love . <p> 3 . Sex sells <p> 4 . Popularity leads to more popularity . Either from curiosity or the assumption that if everyone is reading it then it must be good . <p> It 's been interesting to follow the secretive reading ( only your best friends whisperingly admit they 've read it in all-female company ) to seeing women read it at my gym and on airplanes . A male friend was on a flight where his entire ROW was reading it ( all strangers ) and he when asked what the big deal about it is , a multi-row conversation began where all the readers urged him to read it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of nowhere . It did n't come out of close to nowhere . <p> The original fanfictions were so popular and had so many fans that they organized their own fan event and flew her from the UK to the US to attend . When the books went on sale , that fanbase responded in droves . The sudden spike by someone who had never had a novel for sale before caught the attention of Amazon 's algorithms . The original fans shared the book with their friends who snapped up every hard copy they could find and happily downloaded the e-version for clandestine reading . They got to feel like they were doing something " naughty " ( oh , how I hate that word when applied to adults in a serious manner ... ) <p> ELJames has basically the same story as every other success with a built-in fanbase . She gave those who already knew her what they expected and wanted , and in turn those people supported the writer they enjoy . They spread the word to people who likely had never heard of fanfiction , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . <p> Though , hopefully , none of them confused it with Between Shades of Grey ( or vice versa ) . That could make for some awkward reading . <p> I did n't manage to read past the first 2 chapters which were offered as a the free preview on my Kobo - I did n't want to waste my time and money after that , despite Kobo trying to sell it to me on every page of their website . Opening with her looking in the mirror was enough to put my hackels up . But as my father was a pilot , your mention of the helicopter name makes absolute sense to me . Charlie Tango is the radio call signal so the helicopter would be CT followed by a number . My father 's plane was Charlie Whiskey Foxtrot . Unlike ships and boats , flying beasts do n't often get called romantic names . <p> @Josin I read an article about Ruta Septys ' Between Shades of Grey tour this year , and she did have people come expecting the author for 50 Shades . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ buying this book based on hype but I have n't heard much posistive on my end . One of my good friends who mainly reads non-fiction and self-help said she got the books because they were " something to read . " That 's pitiful to me . You can read a cereal box , too . But she said she wanted to see what the hype was about and none of the mysogyny bothered her . It bothers me . And the bad writing does too . I read a chapter and could n't take it . For me , I have so many books on my list to read , I 'm not looking for just anything to read because it 's popular . If the reviews were stellar , yes , I would give it a chance . <p> I think it 's popular because it is naughty . And because everyone is reading it ( or at least every female it seems , including your grandma ) , it gives one permission to read it . So it becomes insanely popular . And because e-readers are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see what all the fuss is about . That 's why I read it . I wanted to know what I was missing . <p> Yet it 's not really that naugthy , and at times the sex is downright awkward . I will admit the cover is awesome , and if this shabbily written book makes readers aware that erotica exists , I guess something positive comes out of its mere existence . <p> I just realized that my comment rambled on way too long , so I deleted it . I tend to be in constant essay mode , so sorry about that long comment . <p> The heroine of Fifty Shades was portrayed as the intelligent virgin . She 's career-oriented ; a model we can look up to . There are more graphic sex novels out there , but we can feel validated in knowing that this is n't just sex--there 's a moral to be learned . <p> The pure female character changes the rich , powerful man . In this way , it seems as though the female holds a special power over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is powerful and intelligent . <p> Her power is an illusion that the reader is happy to look right through because it validates our desire to indulge in a book where male dominates female--something that would usually be seen as anti-woman today . <p> I think this satisfaction one receives from watching an intelligent woman enjoy being dominated is where the intrigue of this book is rooted . We want the mental and physical dominance , and we want to justify it . <p> The danger in holding up such heroines as a role model , though , is that it perpetuates this idea that all women want to be dominated . They may resist at first , but deep down , they want it . <p> You really did n't think it was that badly written ? Um , are you sure you read Fifty Shades of Grey ? I read the first two ( wo n't even bother with the third one ) and wondered how something like that got could get published ( and NOT re-edited ! ) As a woman who does n't mind BDSM , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and poor editing bothered me . Tell me that you did n't find yourself editing it as you read it ! <p> I believe that Fifty Shades is popular because the author has written most things well ( sex scenes , descriptive details , lush language ... ) but she also did one thing very , very well ... she made the readers totally relate to the protagonist . Anastasia would dismiss one thing after another ( while biting her lower lip ) only to work herself around to the idea as the pages flipped by ( rather quickly ) and I was right there with her ... even if I am 3 times older ! As you say , it is not Shakespeare but it is a GOOD read . <p> I have not read this book . However as the wife of a private pilot I know where the helicopters name came from and it makes perfect sense . When we call a tower we give our planes call letters which consist of numbers followed by letters . C=Charley and T=Tango at every tower where planes fly . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reading it because everyone else I know read it . My sister read the trilogy then shipped her copies to me . Got them for free ... Of course I 'm going to read them ... then loan them out to every friend of mine who has n't read them and wants to . They really are n't so great I would want to pay to read them . EVER . I could n't even be bothered to sign up on the wait list at my local library to read them . <p> And I do NOT understand why they are so insanely popular . Sure , they are based on Twilight fanfiction , but does n't that fact alone sort of make it terrible that they 've become so popular ? The characters are rip-offs of someone else 's work ! <p> Yes , it is true , no matter what some women may say , many women like &; want to be dominated , but more importantly , they want a man who knows this without having to ask &; possibly embarrass them by making them admit it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do what he wants &; still feel like they are strong women who had no choice , when actually they did . Some women feel guilty or sleazy to have these desires , so if a man can satisfy their fantasy without them acknowledging it even IS their fantasy , then that 's the perfect scenario . And 50SoG feeds into &; satisfies that in women who know they 'll never get it . And maybe , if they 're lucky , their men will want to know why they like the book so much &; they can admit without feeling bad about themselves . <p> I was blown away when I discovered that my super macho fireman lover was reading 50 Shades of Grey . ( His sister-in-law gave it to him ? ) I was unwilling to pay for a book I 'd heard so much negative criticism about , but when he gave me his copy ( and pointed out some similarities between the characters ' and our relationship ) , I could n't help but devour the thing . It was mildly titillating , but annoying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a result ( so many other books are , I believe more worthy of my precious time ) . <p> The point I 'm trying to make in a rather round about way is that this book appealed to people you 'd never guess would like it and it contained just enough " average female angst " with respect to relationship dynamics that I think many women could sympathize . The incorporation of email dialogue modernized the couple 's interaction and was something I particularly connected with . <p> As far as the argument that this book is anti-feminist , well , yes , I suppose it is , but there has been so much dialogue surrounding its popularity that surely the less " enlightened " women reading it have had the concerns regarding that aspect of the work drummed into their tiny little heads so much so that the book has certainly served to open up dialogue that , as far as I know , has n't been at the fore of social commentary for quite a long time . It got us talking . That 's a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waiting and watching for this blog ! I agree wholeheartedly with your insights and loved the method you used to hide the spoiler . Cool . <p> My own experience of 50 Shades began day when I discovered that my uber-macho , fireman lover was reading it . I was blown away and my curiosity was naturally piqued . I 'd been unwilling to pay for a book I 'd heard so much negative criticism about , but when he gave me his copy ( and pointed out some similarities between the characters ' and our relationship ) , I could n't help but devour the thing . It was mildly titillating and admittedly great foreplay , but annoying as heck , and I 've resisted reading the sequels as a result so many books , so little time ) . <p> The point I 'm trying to make is that this book appealed to people you 'd never guess would like it and it contained more than enough " female angst " to make " average " women like myself sympathize with the protagonist . The incorporation of email @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Anastasia could express herself more fully in that medium than when faced with the knee-weakening Grey was something I related to in particular . <p> As far as the argument that this book is anti-feminist , well , yes , I suppose it is , but there has been so much dialogue surrounding its popularity that surely the less " enlightened " women reading it have had the concerns regarding that aspect of the work drummed into their tiny little heads so much so that the book has certainly served to reignite dialogue that , as far as I know , has n't been at the fore of social commentary for quite some time . It got us talking . That 's a good thing , right ? <p> I think it was said already , but erotic romantic ebooks are a huge industry . I 'm surprised that anyone is surprised by this . Many millions of dollars are made in the erotica genre . They used to call them bodice rippers , did n't they ? This particular book is very accessible and , as you said , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 've ever read but it is n't at all the worst . It was also well publicized and the author knew how to put it together in a fairly polished manner . <p> First , it was such a blatant rip-off of Twilight that I was offended on Stephenie Meyer 's behalf . If someone did that with my work , I 'd want royalties . I felt that it should have matured past fan-fiction before selling a bazillion copies . <p> In the same vein , the characters were flat as a pancake . Flatter even than Stephenie Meyer 's , which is impressive . Anastasia 's constant shock at Christian Grey 's appetites , despite the fact that they were pretty clear from the outset , was exhausting , as was the endless lip biting and obsessing about the way Mr. Grey 's pants hung off of him . ( Did he need a smaller size ? ) <p> Finally , I just found it a bit , well , unbelievable . Perhaps I 'm a prude , but I could n't help but think that there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I know who has read it has done so because " everyone is reading it . " None of my friends have admitted to liking it , but they all sought it out in the first place because of the peer pressure . There 's a social component to bestsellerdom : once a book reaches the tipping point , everyone else reads it to see what the others are talking about . I saw this happen with The Da Vinci Code , too . <p> How does a book build to that tipping point in the first place ? I 'm not sure anyone really knows . Whatever 50 Shades has in terms of romantic and erotic elements , there are other books that have it too , but never sell as widely . Perhaps the fan base that others mentioned was critical in building the initial buzz . <p> I do n't think it 's anything new to publishing to have these huge sensations , to have a book that 's The It Book . But because that ca n't be forced , and that kind of success ca @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at it , chasing the dream and hoping that the lightning strikes . <p> The only problem with the comparison of the Byronic romance with the Magic Pixie Dream Girl -- and I think you might be on to something there -- is that while in the Byronic fantasy , the woman is young and naive and sacrifices her own pursuit of happiness for her man , in the MPDG fantasy , the woman is young and naive and sacrifices her own pursuit of happiness for her man . <p> Ha - yeah , maybe . But in both cases I think they 're about " unlocking " something inside of the woman/man . The heroine confronting the Byronic hero must give in to temptation , the man in the MPDG story must waken to the world anew . <p> In both archetypes the man is ostensibly giving something up too . The Byronic hero letting himself be tamed , the MPDG hero loses his powerful cynicism which allegedly weakens him -- one reason why he does n't usually end up with the MPDG . <p> " Maybe , at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ atrociously written pile of poo has you using clichs such as " at the end of the day " , without even understanding what it 's done to you . Really Nathan ... <p> I 've never read it however , I ca n't help but feel a trifle irritated by the fact that everyone , from television to blogosphere , talks about this book endlessly . And did n't the book come out months ago ? Enough , already . There are other well-deserving books out there that would like to be talked about too ! However , I have to say , kudos to E.L . James for doing an amazing job of selling her own book : - ) Yvette Carol <p> It was just announced last week that another popular Twilight fanfic called " The Office , " just scored a two-book deal with Gallery Books . And let 's not forget " Gabriel 's Inferno &; Gabriel 's Rapture " ( in the fanfic world known as " The University of Edward Masen " ) was recently published by Penguin 's Berkeley imprint . Both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fandom . As an author who has been trying to get published , I 'm thinking of changing my MC names to Edward and Bella ... LOL ! <p> It was just announced last week that another popular Twilight fanfic called " The Office , " just scored a two-book deal with Gallery Books . And let 's not forget " Gabriel 's Inferno &; Gabriel 's Rapture " ( in the fanfic world known as " The University of Edward Masen " ) was recently published by Penguin 's Berkeley imprint . Both of these had a huge fan base in the Twilight fandom . As an author who has been trying to get published , I 'm thinking of changing my MC names to Edward and Bella ... LOL ! <p> I was interested in reading it because it was supposedly a mainstream representation of BDSM . But the whole plot seemed to be that only damaged , abused people engage in BDSM , and the love of a good woman will cure them of their perversion . Yikes ! Not to mention the fact that it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only does what the sub enjoys and nothing more . So Christian pressuring Ana to do things that make her cry all the time is n't him being dominant , it 's him being a jerk . <p> @ Anne R. Allen - I agree that some women want to be dominated , but some studies have shown that an equal , or even greater , number of men want to be dominated , too . How 's that for setting gender sterotypes on its ears . : ) <p> So , she really wants him to really , really like her ? While biting her lower lip ? Really , really biting ? <p> So , I agree with Jan Priddy , this seems like a paternalistic archtype . <p> It 's the archtype of a girl who is abused/neglected and/or unloved by her father , earning his care , attention and love by having him finally see her ' goodness ' . <p> The sexualization of a father/daughter relationship is , in part , about release of tension . When the abuse stops , it feels like a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specific books become popular for all the reasons that people are saying : word of mouth , the titillation , the water-cooler effect , etc . <p> But the archtype of an abused daughter finding paternal love , where her father figure transforms from a distant " monster " to a loving man , can be found all over and is extremely popular , starting , perhaps , with the Beauty and the Beast fairytale . <p> Twilight was definitely the same archtype . And you find it in tons of romance books , which are read by millions of women ( and men ) . <p> There is a sad part to this , though . The intense popularity of this particular archtype speaks to how many people felt abused and/or neglected by their fathers . That 's sad , and very real . <p> I am wondering if you read the whole series or just the first book ? Because if you have just read the first one then you are truly missing out ; ) <p> I read the first book because I swear every girl in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was . Although , at first I did try to resist and be the conservative southern girl I was raised to be , but curiosity got the better of me and I gave in and read the first book . I read the second two because I had to know what happened and to be honest it was kind of fun to read something a little sexy . <p> It should not be shocking that I purchased them on my kindle , since I already admitted to being conservative . However , I think if there was no such thing as e-readers I would have still purchased the book . I just might have resisted for a little longer . <p> Needless to say I overlooked the perceptual lip biting , and enjoyed the books for what they were - Beauty and the Beast plus sex @Seeley . <p> @Two Flights Down - I am glad you are letting Nathan post your first comment . I read it earlier and really enjoyed your point-of-view . I also felt like I learned a lot from it . I was actually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it , although I tried to but could n't get past the first page . I 'm not sure why , perhaps it was because I knew something explicit and sexual was around the corner . Not a big fan of reading about it . I wonder if it is actually the dominant male women yearn for or is it the charming , understanding and fun-to-be-with , boyish male who has confidence in himself and is n't intimidated by the woman-as-goddess type of thing . Women love men who love and admire them and are , you know , interesting . But dominant , no , I think that would get wearing after awhile and result in tension , but not of the sexual kind . I think most women appreciate a male who is smarter than that . <p> Nathan , I work in an independent bookstore , and I 've been looking forward to this post ever since you announced that you were reading " that book . " As a bookseller , I witnessed firsthand how this book went from an e-book that a lot of women @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and summer , with a record 98 copies sold the day before Mother 's Day . Practically everyone from ages 20 on up were asking about the book . I was surprised at how many of our longtime customers in their sixties and seventies were reading it . Sales have slacked off for the time being , but we 're still selling at least three copies a week . <p> I tried to read it , but I could n't get past chapter two . It killed me to even devote that much time to the book as there were so many other books I wanted to read . But as a bookseller , I felt like I had to find out what all the hype was about . In the end , I went to the customers and they said that " Fifty Shades of Grey " was a compelling story with fun characters , but the writing was mediocre . They also said books two and three were better than one . Most of them said that at first the books were about the sex parts , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sex parts to get to the action parts . <p> I know it would have made less money for Random , but I wish they had combined all three books and edited the crap out of them to make one well-written book . <p> Today , we received the book , " Fifty Shades of Chicken . " It 's a cookbook with a humorous story about an inexperienced chicken being dominated by a chef . I 'm not joking . We 've already sold three copies . And we 've sold a lot of other Fifty Shades parodies , too . But the best writing based on Fifty Shades has to be the Amazon reviews of the books . Those are hilarious . --Jen <p> @Mira--I did NOT say women want to be dominated . I said women are drawn to power . Look at that woman who got mixed up with David Petraeus . You think she 'd have gone for it if he 'd been a grocery clerk ? Or that she fell for that cute receding hairline ? She was n't attracted to his power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that power to rub off on her . It 's the primal appeal of the tribal chieftan . <p> Anne , I 'm sorry ! I got confused . The comment I was responding to was Nancy Thompson 's . Sorry . <p> I agree with you , in that I think people are often attracted to someone who has what we do n't have and want . I do n't know about women in general being attracted to power , although , since they have been denied power for many centuries , that makes sense . <p> It 's a fantasy . No one really wants to be dominated or hurt in real life but it is fun to read about it and imagine what you would do in the same situation , especially given that Christian , ( and Edward ) is so beautiful , dreamy , athletic , not to mention rich . Plus , he is vulnerable at heart so she can fix him . We all want to fix people . <p> I thoroughly enjoyed all three books and am prepared to forgo beautiful writing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ excessive editing and tailoring a story to suit a publisher 's idea of what 's fun to read sometimes spoils the fun . Just saying . . . <p> I read 50 Shades because I enjoyed a few of the Twilight books , plus , as a writer , whenever hoards of people are reading a book and telling how great it is , I have to see what the fuss is . <p> I think it 's popular for a number of reasons : 1 . The author is building off of her Twilight Fan Fiction base ( as a few people have already mentioned. ) 2 . Far as I can tell , she 's bringing something out into the open , mainstream life , that people rarely talk about . To tell you the truth , I 'd never heard of a Dominant until I 'd read this book ! Of course , I knew about BDSM , but ... I think she 's bringing a " somewhat secret " lifestyle out into the open , almost saying it 's " okay " to do this . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compelled to finish the first story , and then I felt compelled to read the second story . <p> Things started going flat for me after about the third or fourth chapter of the second story . I felt the second book had a VERY SAGGING MIDDLE ! I was bored with 2nd book , almost did not finish it . <p> The 3rd book was not as entertaining as the first , but , not as SLOW as the second one . <p> @Mira Oh , good . I did n't want people to think I was into that sub stuff . I have a recurring character in my books who 's a dominatrix , though . : - ) <p> The lure of power does work both ways . The scullery maid who ends up with the prince is one archetype ( Those Regency romances are always about the girl who falls for Rakish Duke , not the Rakish Stable Boy With Great Abs . ) But another archetype is La Belle Dame Sans Merci--the unattainable high-born Lady of the troubadour poets . Both archetypes live on in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tapped into an archetypal fantasy . It 's the fantasy , not the prose that people are attracted to . <p> I think Fifty Shades , aside from the ' billionaire guy ' fantasy many women have , hit precisely because it was raw and ' flawed ' on so many levels . <p> It was simple . Something the average person ... alright in parts ... can relate it . It did n't pretend to be intellectual , or a writing masterpiece . It was just a story about a girl . Believable or not in some places was irrelevant . <p> Think ' Gangnam Style ' which if I 'm not mistaken , has taken the slot for most viewed Youtube Video ever . What makes this song great ? It does n't follow convention or rules ... it 's just an odd dude , doing odd things and not giving a toot what anything thinks . <p> I think most of us are pretty basic creatures . And for reasons we ca n't fathom , we relate to basic things . Primal things . <p> I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why , even people who do n't read ... could relate to it . E.L just told her story exactly how she envisioned it . <p> It 's sexy . Point , blank and period . I read it and I was not impressed from a prose standpoint . But I have a slew of girlfriends who for months could not do anything but quote the book lines and wonder about who is going to play Christian in the movie . And I have to admit I will go see the movie . In the age of reality tv where someone named Snookie is rich and famous , are we really surprised that this book has been so popular ? <p> Here 's what I find weird : I have never heard an actual plot mentioned in relation to this book . I mean , is there a journey ? A pivotal moment ? What 's at stake for the main character ? I keep hearing about sex , sex , sex , but nothing ever happens . <p> Logline : Girl meets hot businessman ; they go on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ buy that . But still , I 'm feeling mental pain over this . *hits head with Fifty Shades* <p> When I read your comment that FSOG ' gave an urbane veneer to a romance genre that very often skews rural/suburban ' I thought ' YES ! ' . For years now I 've been a disenfranchised chicklit reader . From once being cool stories about smart , metropolis dwelling singletons meeting &; falling in love , chicklit has descended into a twee genre about second time rounders , empty nesters &; heroines knitting their own houses . They do n't even focus on a relationship anymore - they 're all to do with setting up a business , saving a shop or a building ( insert as appropriate ) . Yawn . It 's why I dumped chicklit , serendipitously found fanfic &; never looked back . I 'd hoped the publication of FSOG would give chicklit/romance the kick up the pants it needed , would make it flirtier , sexier , funnier and more relationship centred but alas , the sniffy , superior response of most chicklit authors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cupcakes &; knitting tea cosies . <h> Facebook : <h> Twitter <h> I 'm on Google+ <h> Tumblr too : <h> Search the blog : <p> Loading ... <h> Friends of the Blog : <h> Affiliate Links <p> Links to buy books and other media and products via online vendors are affiliate links , for which I will receive an affiliate commission that goes to support the overhead associated with maintaining the blog and forums . The opinions expressed about the books

@@5032941 <h> January 12 , 2012 <h> What If There Was No Moon ? <p> The question arose one evening after Christmas , fittingly beneath a nearly full Moon . What if this bright sphere we are so accustomed to in the sky just were n't there ? How would our planet get by without it ? <p> A few consequences come immediately to mind : Neil Armstrong 's life would have been less exciting . Audrey Hepburn would n't have sat on the stairs with a guitar and played " Moon River " in the movie Breakfast at Tiffany 's . And the myth of werewolves would n't have existed -- at least not in the form we know it today . <h> RECOMMENDED ARTICLES <p> If you watched the movie Moon , you remember Helium-3 as the substance Sam Bell was sending back to Earth , during his onerous three year tenure on the Sarang lunar base . Helium-3 is not a piece of science fiction , but an ... more <p> This mottled landscape showing the impact crater Tycho is among the most violent-looking places on our moon . Astronomers did n't aim NASA 's Hubble Space @ @ @ @ @

@@5033041 <h> Returning to Ravnica . . . Again <p> The time has once again come to look back at my set review and weigh the good and the bad to see where I measure up . The set is relatively new still , and so some of the higher prices have not adjusted , and some of the sleepers may yet still be slumbering , but nonetheless , it is time to see where we stand . If you heeded my advice during spoiler season and wrote down your predictions , it is time to dust them off and see just how accurate we were . I will run down the same list I did in these articles so we can directly compare predictions versus actual prices . <p> Angel of Serenity -- Of all the called shots I made for this set , this is by and far the one I was the least accurate on . I predicted that the card would break into reanimator but would not see play otherwise . I could not have been more wrong , as Angel now dominates the format with her pal Thragtusk . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this guy to see play in some W/x aggro as soon as the format came out , and then he 'd potentially spike . Although there was a brief spike when W/U aggro started doing well after States , it was short-lived , as the W/U Flash variant took over , leaving this guy in the dust . I can see his price spiking back to $4 on and off through his time in Standard , but for now , I was certainly a little high on my prediction . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $4 <p> $2 <p> Cyclonic Rift -- Finally a card I was right in there on . I saw this seeing play as a way for control to slam the door on aggro in the late game , and it seems it has also proved to be a useful tool in the mirror matches in addition to allowing you to bounce Angels and planeswalkers alike . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $4 <p> $3.5 <p> Jace , Architect of Thought -- I am pretty happy to say Jace exceeded even my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risen even higher than I had originally predicted . Although he is currently $35 retail , his auction price can be found as low as $25 quite regularly , leading me to believe his retail number may drop soon enough . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $22 <p> $35 <p> Sphinx of the Chimes -- This was one of my more off-the-wall called shots from this set , as I had hoped a deck able to use this in conjunction with Veilborn Ghoul would arise . Alas , I was incorrect , and it does not seem this guy will be rising from the bulk bin any time soon . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $3 <p> $.50 <p> Desecration Demon -- Boy did this guy plummet to the depths of the bulk bin . I still have high hopes for the Demon , so I have been picking them up for cheap when I can . After looking at the price , I was surprised to see they have even held $3 with as little play as they have been seeing . <p> Prediction : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -- This one tanked even harder than I expected , but I feel that over time , this will increase due to Commander and casual crowds . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $2 <p> $.50 <p> Necropolis Regent -- This has gone about as expected , and I see the price holding just above bulk . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $2 <p> $2.50 <p> Underworld Connections -- Although it has seen some play over the past few months , this card is proving to be no Phyrexian Arena . I do n't expect a sharp increase any time soon , but I do see people still trying to make the card work . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $5 <p> $1.50 <p> Ash Zealot -- This card has been slowly creeping back onto people 's radars and has ended right on where I predicted . With the popularity of mono-red , I could see another small spike , but I am probably going to dump any I have now . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $5 <p> $5 <p> Guild Feud @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of which has not been delved into in Modern ; however , I also make some wild shots . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $2 <p> $.50 <p> Utvara Hellkite -- This dropped slightly lower than I thought it would . As expected , though , it has held value from the casual players and collectors <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $4 <p> $2.50 <p> Deadbridge Goliath -- Being released as a promo killed the price on this guy , and his lack of play has given me no reason to believe that will change any time soon . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $4 <p> $1 <p> Abrupt Decay -- I fully believe I was right on the money with this card , and I expect it to stay stable around where it is now . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $10 <p> $8 <p> Armada Wurm -- It seems the multicolored calls were far closer to their current values and reasoning , Armada Wurm being right in there as well . <p> Detention Sphere -- I was correct in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ low on the price . I expected Zombies to keep down control more than it did , and I therefore undervalued this card in the current format . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $6 <p> $8 <p> Dreadbore -- I expected this to be in Zombies , but when that fell , I expected the price to tank . Luckily , Jund has become a major metagame player , leaving Dreadbore with a home in Standard . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $6 <p> $8 <p> Epic Experiment -- I certainly did n't see this card coming in Standard , instead expecting Modern results . The price still holds steady at $4 , but just like Past in Flames , it may skyrocket one day or it may sink slowly to the bottom of your bulk . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $7 <p> $4 <p> Isperia , Supreme Judge -- So far , Isperia has managed to stay above bulk , but her lack of play is already catching up . I do n't believe what I mentioned about being a conditional one- @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the current format . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $4 <p> $2 <p> Jarad , Golgari Lich Lord -- The normal version is down to $3 , while the Duel Decks copy is still $6 . I still believe he has not found a home , and if that continues , I can see the price dropping even further . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $5 <p> $3 or $6 <p> Lotleth Troll -- This guy saw as much play as I expected but has tanked far quicker than I predicted . The fact that Zombies never became the dominating force everyone predicted never gave the Troll enough time to shine . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $12 <p> $6 <p> Loxodon Smiter -- I am surprised this card has held such a reasonable value over the past few months . The G/W aggro deck helped his popularity , but unless Rakdos 's Return continues to gain popularity , I see Smiter falling out of favor . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $3 <p> $5 <p> Niv-Mizzet , Dracogenius -- I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jammed in more U/R midrange or control decks . If you have ever untapped with this guy , you know the definition of driver 's seat . There is no way this guy does n't hit $15 somewhere in his Standard life . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $15 <p> $5 <p> Rakdos , Lord of Riots -- This one has been relatively accurate . The B/R suicide deck that has sported Rakdos has shown to be fringe-playable but still shows up occasionally . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $4 <p> $5 <p> Rakdos 's Return -- I have been on this card from the beginning , and it has proven to be among the scarier cards control can tap out to cast . Jund and other midrange decks have even taken to main-decking Return to great success . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $6 <p> $10 <p> Sphinx 's Revelation -- Revelation is among the worst cards to ever see resolve as an aggro player . Not only did the opponent just Fog you , but he also drew three-plus cards . The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ match over this card . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $6 <p> $10 <p> Supreme Verdict -- A card like this will ebb and flow through the price scale over its life in Standard . The Legacy applications will always make it worth picking up if ever the price should be near bulk . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $4 <p> $6 <p> Trostani , Selesnya 's Voice -- I was a bit surprised when I reread this article to discover I was not a huge fan of this card . I 've been impressed with Trostani ever since I started playing her in G/W/x midrange variants , and I can not believe she is only $8 right now , much less ever $4 . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $4 <p> $8 <p> Vraska the Unseen -- As expected , this price has plummeted over the past few months , just now finally crawling into the sideboards of some midrange variants . I am sure that at some point , her price will spike , but as of now , I see her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ <p> $16 <p> $12 <p> Wayfaring Temple -- Without a deck , this card is floundering . Nothing has shown to be quite good enough for any serious competitive play . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $3 <p> $1 <p> Deathrite Shaman -- It seems everyone has been on this card lately due to the boom in grave-based decks . I do n't expect his price to hold for long , so you should dump them now while you can if you have no use for them . I believe this card will always hold value and continue to grow over time , but you will be able to pick them up cheaper in a few months . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $6 <p> $12 <p> Growing Ranks -- Unfortunately , fringe play has kept this card from hitting bulk . Given time , I do believe this will obtain about the same price as Parallel Lives . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $3 <p> $1.50 <p> Nivmagus Elemental -- I was happy to dump the few copies I had when they showed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all did the same . I do n't see many brave souls wanting to pilot that or any similar deck any time soon . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $3 <p> $2 <p> Chromatic Lantern -- This card has seen less play than I expected , but the price seems to have stabilized for now . Expect the price to climb upward slowly as a continual staple in Commander . <p> Prediction : <p> Actual : <p> $7 <p> $4 <p> Whew , I am surprised I was able to fit all of the thoughts into one article this time . I am sorry I cut some of the explanations short to conserve space , but most of them do n't really need me to describe what you already know . Thank you as always for reading as always , and join me next week for another theme week here on GatheringMagic.com . <h> About Ryan Bushard <p> As a PTQ grinder turned trader and financial writer , Ryan has been playing Magic since Antiquities . A regular face at major US events , he can usually be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the top tables for the latest deck tech . <p> When I look at financial value in mtg , I always look at the casual aspect of it first . I try to pick cards , that are generally very cheap because they do n't see play in standard ( or modern or legacy ) , and then horde as many of them as I can find -- always buying in bulk . I look at cards and decide how they will influence the casual crowd over the years . Remembering that casual cards never rotate , and have no banned list . For example , I already have gone deep in on parallel lives , when it was bulk , darksteel plate , ascetisism , grave betrayal , etc . These cards will all be valuable to casual players over time , and as the supply shortens out , they increase in value . plus , you never know when one of these cards might hit in modern or legacy ... <h> Videos <p> GatheringMagic.com , which used to be ManaNation.com , is a website about Magic : The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gathering , the mana symbols , the tap symbol and all other related images are owned by Wizards of the

@@5033141 <p> Ahh , I see now . Well hey , it 's unique , I definately ca n't knock it . And wow ! 25 cats ? When I was in college I spent a couple summers at my dad 's place , which at the time was a single-wide 70 's style mobile home with 5 adults ( including myself ) , 3 kids under age 12 , 12 cats and 2 rats ( pets ) . I thought that was crowded , haha , but 25 cats ? ? Hehe , no offense , but are you the " wierd cat lady " in your neighborhood ? <p> Not gon na necro a 7 month old thread , but when I post I try to be as proper with my written english as I can ( imperfect at times , I know ) . In my opinion , good sentence structure and spelling is one of the easiest ways to make people think you 're intelligent , at least at first glance . Occasionally I 'll purposely misspell/make up words to add a bit of personality to my posts . <p> Ahh , I see now . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't knock it . And wow ! 25 cats ? When I was in college I spent a couple summers at my dad 's place , which at the time was a single-wide 70 's style mobile home with 5 adults ( including myself ) , 3 kids under age 12 , 12 cats and 2 rats ( pets ) . I thought that was crowded , haha , but 25 cats ? ? Hehe , no offense , but are you the " wierd cat lady " in your neighborhood ? <p> " Why do you post the way you do ? " <p> Not gon na necro a 7 month old thread , but when I post I try to be as proper with my written english as I can ( imperfect at times , I know ) . In my opinion , good sentence structure and spelling is one of the easiest ways to make people think you 're intelligent , at least at first glance . Occasionally I 'll purposely misspell/make up words to add a bit of personality to my posts . <p> " We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ totally understand not posting in that thread . I only use it as a quick way to share . " <p> Just like if you strapped a piece of toast butter-side up to the back of a cat , and attached it to a generator ; infinitely renewable energy . <p> We are the future . The Forum 's next step in evolution . <p> Its genetic destiny . <p> &gt; : -D <p> On a side note , I have seen a cat not land on its feet once . She was my fluffy cat . She was n't very bright . She also used to stand in the litter tray with her butt over the edge , missing the litter tray , quite regularly <p> On a side note , I have seen a cat not land on its feet once . She was my fluffy cat . She was n't very bright . She also used to stand in the litter tray with her butt over the edge , missing the litter tray , quite regularly <p> She 's doing it on purpose . <p> She enjoys @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her leavings with your hands . <p> On a side note , I have seen a cat not land on its feet once . She was my fluffy cat . She was n't very bright . She also used to stand in the litter tray with her butt over the edge , missing the litter tray , quite regularly <p> She 's doing it on purpose . <p> She enjoys the sight of you on your knees , picking up her leavings with your hands . <p> Basically that was it , methinks . I do n't have her

@@5033241 <h> This has been a growing trend in recent years and shows no signs of abating <h> Andrew McCutchen , Justin Upton among position players who have done the same <p> Matt Cain got a nine-figure deal before this season , when he pitched a perfect game and helped the Giants win their second World Series title in three years . <p> Jason O. Watson/Getty Images <p> Left versus right could have been a debate about more than political preference this November . There were nearly two ace starting pitchers , one lefthanded and one righthanded , available on the open market with startlingly similar credentials : <p> Pitcher A is a 28-year-old National League lifer with three All-Star appearances , a 3.34 career ERA ( 126 ERA+ ) , a 1.14 WHIP and an average of 212 innings pitched over the past five seasons . <p> Pitcher B is a 28-year-old National League lifer with three All-Star appearances , a 3.27 career ERA ( 124 ERA+ ) , a 1.17 WHIP and an average of 220 innings pitched over the past five seasons . <p> Pitcher A , of course , is lefthander Cole Hamels of the Phillies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . Their choice of throwing hands might have been their greatest discrepancy . <p> Alas , the great debate never materialized , thanks to lucrative extensions signed during the season . Before the season Cain signed an eight-year deal with a team option for a ninth season that 's worth at least $139.75 million , while back in July Hamels signed a seven-year contract for $153 million with a team option for an eighth year . ( The difference in contract value , of course , shows that Hamels ' lefthandness -- not to mention his 3.8 strikeout-to-walk ratio that blew away Cain 's 2.4 -- was indeed more coveted . ) <p> But they never reached the open market , where fans could dream on their team signing a new ace , pre-empting weeks of head-to-head media scrutiny and front office deliberations . Baseball has always had the best offseason in sports for its flurry of activity -- but fewer superstars will change teams this winter . <p> Get used to it . The offseason may be starting earlier and lasting longer but it 's not getting better . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ locked up before they hit the open market , a self-fulfilling trend that 's likely to continue in the years ahead . <p> While those players that do hit free agency are clear beneficiaries of the reduced supply -- most notably Zack Greinke , the Angels righthander who , in the absence of Hamels and Cain , is now the unquestioned best pitcher available -- clubs will have increasing difficulty affordably filling needs via this route of player acquisition . That puts even more onus on amateur scouting and minor league development to make sure the draft is an efficient feeder . It also encourages trading as a more appealing avenue to bolster a roster . <p> The number of stars who could have been free agents -- but now wo n't be -- only would have grown in coming years . The pool of available players before the 2014 season could have included Reds first baseman Joey Votto , Nationals third baseman Ryan Zimmerman , Rangers second baseman Ian Kinsler and Royals leftfielder Alex Gordon , but each signed a long-term contract in 2012 , two seasons ahead of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but right now clubs are finding it advantageous to sign their own players to long-term contracts at all stages of a player 's career , but especially at two junctures . <p> One is just before arbitration begins , with the player signing a contract for all his arb-eligible years and usually his first year or two of free agency . It 's a trade-off of cost and personnel certainty for the club , and it 's a matter of financial security and geographic familiarity for the player . And both sides avoid the often-contentious arbitration process . <p> The second juncture comes when a star is a year or two away from free agency , and a club decides it is best to lock him up before someone else tempts him with a huge offer . <p> Of the 25 richest contracts in history , as compiled by Cot 's Contracts , 15 were signed without the player being a free agent . The list of active stars who have never been free agents includes Ryan Howard , Matt Kemp , Troy Tulowitzki , Ryan Braun , Joe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Jered Weaver , Justin Verlander , Felix Hernandez , Brandon Phillips and Molina . <p> An influx of television money -- both nationally and , for many franchises , also regionally -- is driving clubs ' confidence to spend on their own . After all , the fear is that a player who becomes a free agent will likely have many suitors who also have new riches . As future free-agent markets get depleted thanks to an increasing number of extensions , the cost of the available players will rise and that player already on a team 's roster starts looking like a better and better long-term option . <p> There 's also a follow-the-leader mentality once a market is established . Once one ballclub sets the price for a player of similar skillset and similar service times , others often follow suit . For instance , look at these three outfielders , who signed contracts as emerging stars : the Diamondbacks signed Justin Upton to a six-year , $51.25-million contract in March 2010 ; the Reds locked up Jay Bruce for six years and $51 million in Dec. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years and $51.5 million in March 2012 . <p> Another example , using pre-arb lefthanded starters : Ricky Romero of Toronto , Holland , Niese and Bumgarner all signed five-year contracts worth between $25 million and $35 million . <p> Rangers general manager Jon Daniels , in discussing his club 's extensions of Kinsler and Holland during an interview in May , stressed that the decision to sign someone long-term is primarily about the individual player -- his skillset and desire to stay -- though Daniels acknowledged that projections of the free-agent marketplace play a role too . <p> For now , that marketplace is

@@5033341 <h> Contact Us <p> The Interior Department on Friday issued a final plan to close 1.6 million acres of federal land in the West originally slated for oil shale development . <p> The proposed plan would fence off a majority of the initial blueprint laid out in the final days of the George W. Bush administration . It faces a 30-day protest period and a 60-day process to ensure it is consistent with local and state policies . After that , the department would render a decision for implementation . <p> The move is sure to rankle Republicans , who say President Obama 's grip on fossil fuel drilling in federal lands is too tight . <p> Interior 's Bureau of Land Management cited environmental concerns for the proposed changes . Among other things , it excised lands with " wilderness characteristics " and areas that conflicted with sage grouse habitats . <p> Under the plan , 677,000 acres in Colorado , Utah and Wyoming would be open for oil shale exploration . Another 130,000 acres in Utah would be set aside for tar sands production . <p> The administration and Democrats said that while the plan would curtail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still opens up a significant amount of land that was previously unavailable for the energy production method . <p> The administration noted the plan pushed forward Friday also included two research , development and demonstration ( RD &D); leases for oil shale development . <p> " The proposed plan supports the Administration 's all-of-the-above approach to explore the full potential our nation 's domestic energy resources and to develop innovative technology and techniques that will lead to safe and responsible production of resources , including oil shale and tar sands , which industry recognizes are years from being commercially viable , but require RD &D; today , " Interior spokesman Blake Androff said . <p> Sen. Mark Udall ( D-Colo. ) praised the plan , saying the administration exercised the right amount of caution on oil shale development , which has not yet been brought to commercial scale and brings concerns about the amount of water used in the practice . <p> " I am glad the Interior Department is taking measured steps to encourage research and development of our oil shale resources . With water being one of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the potential impacts of commercial oil shale development . Nonetheless , I look forward to seeing this technology explored further , " Udall said in a Friday statement . <p> Oil shale development is not to be confused with drilling into shale formations for oil and natural gas . The practice , which involves separating hydrocarbons bound up in rocks , has not been widely executed since Exxon 's failed Colorado venture in the 1980s . <p> " By significantly reducing the acreage of wilderness potentially available for leasing , Secretary Salazar is laying out a creative , thoughtful and more responsible approach in managing some of our most precious resources , " McEnaney said in a Friday statement . <p> GOP lawmakers , along with some Democrats , have pushed for more fossil fuel production in the West . Republicans have led the charge , saying Obama 's policies on fossil fuel drilling on federal lands are too restrictive . <p> While Obama notes domestic oil-and-gas production has increased during his administration , Republicans contend that it is activity on private and state land that is driving the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oil-and-gas production on federal land -- though levels are still higher than they were during the Bush administration . <p> The Congressional Western Caucus released a report in August to deliver that message . <p> " This proposal will place further limitations on the exploration and development of our country 's natural resources and is yet another example of how this administration continues to stand in the way of North American energy independence , " Rep. Ed Whitfield ( R-Ky. ) , the chairman of House Energy and Commerce 's subcommittee on Energy and Power , said in a statement to The Hill . <p> Oil and gas lobby the American Petroleum Institute , an ally of congressional Republicans , slammed the decision . <p> Jack Gerard , the group 's chief , said Thursday he would take a " wait-and-see " approach to Obama 's second term to gauge whether he would live up to campaign rhetoric in which he praised the domestic oil-and-gas industry . <p> Reid Porter , the lobby 's spokesman , said Friday 's news was a disappointing sign from the administration . <p> " @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ development and investment in one of the nation 's most energy-rich areas and goes against a prior government decision that would allow for research and development over a much wider geographical area . Just days after the election this decision by the administration sends negative signals to industry and capital markets at a time when we need to encourage growth and innovation in the U.S. ,

@@5033441 <h> House Sparrow <p> You can find House Sparrows most places where there are houses ( or other buildings ) , and few places where there are n't . Along with two other introduced species , the European Starling and the Rock Pigeon , these are some of our most common birds . Their constant presence outside our doors makes them easy to overlook , and their tendency to displace native birds from nest boxes causes some people to resent them . But House Sparrows , with their capacity to live so intimately with us , are just beneficiaries of our own success . <h> Typical Voice <h> Size &; Shape <p> House Sparrows are n't related to other North American sparrows , and they 're differently shaped . House Sparrows are chunkier , fuller in the chest , with a larger , rounded head , shorter tail , and stouter bill than most American sparrows . <h> Color Pattern <p> Male House Sparrows are brightly colored birds with gray heads , white cheeks , a black bib , and rufous neck -- although in cities you may see some that are dull and grubby . Females are a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are noticeably striped with buff , black , and brown . <h> Behavior <p> House Sparrows are noisy sparrows that flutter down from eaves and fencerows to hop and peck at crumbs or birdseed . Look for them flying in and out of nest holes hidden behind shop signs or in traffic lights , or hanging around parking lots waiting for crumbs and picking insects off car grills . <h> Habitat <p> House Sparrows have lived around humans for centuries . Look for them on city streets , taking handouts in parks and zoos , or cheeping from a perch on your roof or trees in your yard . House Sparrows are absent from undisturbed forests and grasslands , but they 're common in countryside around farmsteads . <h> Adult nonbreeding <h> Similar Species <p> The female Dickcissel has a longer , heavier bill than a female House Sparrow , with a white chin , dark whisker stripe , and usually a tinge of yellow in the eyestripe and on the chest . Black-throated Sparrows of the dry western U.S. are all gray , white , and black on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plain brown on the face , without the male House Sparrow ' s white cheeks , and the forehead is black . Juvenile White-crowned Sparrows look like female House Sparrows but have reddish-brown crowns and thin white wingbars . Eurasian Tree Sparrows , which live around St. Louis , Missouri , have an entirely rufous crown and a dark spot on the cheek . <h> Backyard Tips <p> Many people regard House Sparrows as undesirables in their yards , since they are n't native and can be a menace to native species . House Sparrows are so closely entwined with people 's lives that you probably will find them around your home even without feeding them . They are frequent visitors to backyard feeders , where they eat most kinds of birdseed , especially millet , corn , and sunflower seed . <h> Find This Bird <p> The best way to find a House Sparrow is to visit an urban area and watch for a conspicuous , tame sparrow hopping on the ground ( it might help to bring a sandwich or some birdseed ) . You can easily attract @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hand . In the countryside , look out for bright , clean versions of the city House Sparrow around barns , stables , and storehouses . <p> Report nesting activities of House Sparrows to the NestWatch citizen-science project . To deter House Sparrows from taking over nest boxes intended for native birds ,

@@5033541 <h> NYCEDC 's blog <h> We Have a Winner ! <p> We 'd like to thank all of our participants who have helped make this competition a success . We 've received fantastic entries and have had tens of thousands of views throughout the course of the competition . We 're proud to support the design community and showcase amazing talent from around the country . Stay tuned to our social media channels , where

@@5033641 <h> Disney Food for Families : Getting Kids to Try New Foods at Walt Disney World <p> Welcome to the Disney Food Blog . If you enjoy this post , you should check out the tour of the site to see all the great Disney Food information we have . <p> It 's no secret that my daughter Louisa is more than a little produce averse . There was a period of about four years when NO fruit or vegetable crossed her lips , and even now at age 12 she still has to be cajoled into having more than a bite or two of something as innocuous as sweet potato or banana . <p> Frozen bananas , a gateway fruit . <p> So you can imagine my surprise when , on a recent trip to the Animal Kingdom 's Yak &; Yeti restaurant , she consumed nearly the entire plate of wok-fried green beans we had ordered for the table . It was one of those parenting moments where you hold your breath and move slowly so as to avoid breaking the spell . <p> Yak &; Yeti wok-fried green beans . My hero ! <p> Those Yak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bean eater , but she is now occasionally willing to nibble on a tempura string bean if we 're out for Japanese . Based on our prior track record with legumes , I 'm going to count that solidly in the win column . <h> The Theme Park Food Effect <p> What was it about the Yak &; Yeti beans that made Louisa such a fan ? Yes , they were quite tasty , and yes , the green part was handily obfuscated by a crunchy , yumtastic fried breading coating ; but we had tried similar ploys in the past to no avail . My theory is that the Yak &; Yeti beans were flavored by the spice of ( cue the orchestra ) The Theme Park Food Effect . <p> Much like campers will say that meals eaten on the trail are the BEST , you know that their experience is colored by the fact that their senses are overwhelmed and they 're starving from an exhausting walk in the hot wilderness . The Theme Park Food Effect is the same thing , only substitute " hot theme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ words , your defenses are down and you 're positively famished , so everything tastes better . <p> We had previously experienced the Theme Park Food Effect with Louisa 's twin sister , Josie . Josie is generally a far more adventurous eater than her sister , but she too has pockets of food aversion , one of which was non-fish seafood . An order of calamari from Mama Melrose 's at Disney 's Hollywood Studios changed her mindset , and now she 'll readily eat calamri , clams , mussels , and scallops . Score one for the Theme Park Food Effect . <p> Tempura Calamari and Veggies at Raglan Road might be a good place to start <p> Of course , the Theme Park Food Effect does have its limits . I 'm reminded here of a line from the sitcom Seinfeld . Jerry is speaking about his nemesis neighbor 's eating habits and says , " Newman would n't eat broccoli if it were deep fried in chocolate sauce . " <p> Some kids will never be willing to eat certain foods , even if they 're @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Mickey Mouse , Cinderella , and the entire cast of High School Musical . For example , Louisa was going nowhere near that calamari . <p> And that 's OK , but just in case your child has some food fears or aversions that are nearing the breaking point , The Theme Park Food Effect may be exactly what you need . <h> " Magical " Disney Foods May Change Your Kids ' Minds About Food Fears <p> To point you in the right direction , here are some typical food fears , and the Walt Disney World dishes that could possibly work the Theme Park Food Effect magic on your children . <h> Veggie Aversion <p> If veggies are a no-go for your kid , try : <p> Wok-fried green beans . Yak &; Yeti , Disney 's Animal Kingdom . <p> Capricossa pizza ( with eggplant and artichoke ) . Via Napoli , Epcot . Pizza is a great delivery method for any new food . <p> Carrot cake cookie . Writer 's Stop , Disney 's Hollywood Studios ; and other locations . For some kids @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a good start . <h> Spice Aversion <p> Pumpkin spice funnel cake . Funnel cake stand , American Adventure , Epcot . Even cinnamon and nutmeg are too strong for some children . Fried dough is about as appealing a delivery vehicle as could possibly exist . <p> Smoked salmon . Akershus Princess Fairytale lunch or dinner , Epcot . The lunch and dinner meals here come with an included stop at the Norwegian-themed cold appetizer buffet . The buffet features a variety of cold ( and thus less smelly ) fish dishes . <p> Herring and Salmon <h> " Different " Meats Aversion <p> If your kids would rather not try meat other than beef , chicken , and pork , try : <p> Lamb meatballs . Kouzzina . Disney 's Boardwalk . If your child will eat regular beef or pork meatballs , then presenting other meats in this form can be helpful . <h> 17 Comments <p> It was n't a child but me that had that Magical Food Moment . Until a particular trip to WDW , I refused to let anything with asparagus pass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CRT , and I was thoroughly enjoying the vegetable medley that had come with my chicken dinner . I told DH that I HAD to find out how they had made these green beans -- they were delicious . I looked down at my plate and found evidence that I was not eating green beans . There in all its pointy glory was an asparagus tip . Since then , asparagus has been a regular on our menu when it is on sale ( but only roasted or grilled -- have n't worked up the nerve to try it any other way ) . <p> LOVE this post ! I get that child picky eaters can be tough but it 's SO important to encourage them to try new things and Disney is the perfect " safe " environment to experiment . Be fearless ! <p> Or sure , be afraid of that asparagus , but still TRY it . Experience life , do n't hide from it ! This goes for adults too -- you can hate a food but you should at least give it a good-faith , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open mouths , open hearts . <p> Although my kids are pretty adventurous eaters , I still find that if I order something " different " on vacation , they 're usually first to pipe up and ask for a taste . We joke about my daughter especially , that every meal we have on vacation is a buffet for her , because she eats a little bit off of everyone 's plate ! Luckily , my husband and I both enjoy eating foods at WDW that we normally would n't have at home , both ethnic foods ( Restaurant Marrakesh ) , and ingredients ( duck ) that I do n't usually cook . And if all else fails , and they absolutely wo n't try it , just let them eat what they like . It 's vacation , after all ! <p> I find that my pickiest eater is actually my husband ! For this reason -- I completely relate to this article . What amazes me is that I find him to be a little more adventurous when on vacation -- particularly at WDW . We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had his first " bite " of apple -- no joke ! However -- at Disney I find that if I say -- you can order whatever you want -- you just ca n't make any substitutions ( ie : fries instead of mashed potatoes ) or ask for no sauce or seasoning . While he still has complete control of his choices he is more apt to branch out with different flavorings when given this caveat . At WDW was the first time my husband ordered fish and bison of all things ! Taking him out of his home element and a little bit of Disney magic makes all the difference ! <p> Terri -- I 've found it often helps to eat something without knowing what it is . I had the same experience with beets once . I ate them accidentally and then realized that what I thought I had hated , I actually loved . <p> V -- Good points . And LOL about the asparagus . <p> Kathy -- Epcot is a great place to sample new cuisines . I tend to order things there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . <p> Sue -- Too funny . You better find some things that they do n't like and start ordering those <p> Not just for children ! I ca n't stand vegetables in general , but I repeatedly ate my green beans at Disney World , and the threat of 50s Prime Time Cafe shame got me to force down collard greens . There 's another side of the effect that people are much more willing to try new things when they 're happy and relaxed , and where are we more happy and relaxed than Disney World ? <p> I 'm SO excited to take my nieces and nephew to Disney World for the VERY FIRST TIME this August ! The older two are amazing , they 'll try just about anything ( especially my nephew- how many four year olds do you know that ask for sushi ? ? ) , but the little one will ODDLY only eat fruit , pasta with butter , and beans ( any kind of bean ) ! <p> Excited to take them down and see if the " Theme Park Effect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goes out to eat with us all of the time , and when we decided to take him to Disney with us we decided to make a new rule . Everyone must eat something new at every restaurant . he has tried duck , asparagus and all sorts of things . He has spread his palate quite a bit thank goodness ! <p> I love this article ! My son is so picky it 's painful ... but he wo n't eat veggies , fruits , fish , spicy , etc ... he wo n't eat any of it . This is the only part of our trip to WDW that I dread ! But there is enough basic pizza and uncrustables for him ( I mean us ) to survive ! Do you have one suggestion for him to try to see if he 'll branch out his food choices ? <p> I cant really relate to this article since we eat almost anything and my dd5 is a great eater . She just had calamari for the first time we ordered it out with a group of friends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make a big deal out of food , they said tell her what it is , so we did she did not care . We do allow her to make substitutions , since there is food she just can not stand like mashed potatoes . So she will ask for sweet potatoes instead or another veggie . <p> Love , love , love this post . I have a resistant eater myself and I 'm very familiar with the battle . Our theme park win : we were staying at AK villas during my son 's crackers-only phase , and he happened to have growing pains in his legs at the time . We told him that Mickey Mouse applesauce had special powers to heal his legs -- and he ATE it ! This was a huge , huge victory , and led to applesauce still being one of his very favorite things to eat . Whatever it takes , right ? <p> Printing this off to take with me ! Does anyone have any tips to avoid the picky eating in the first place ? At the moment he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but hey ! I 'll put it in my mouth " . I 'm afraid of when that will end ! <p> BTW do not be afraid to lie to your children . My sister was told that calamari were onion rings for many years , and now she 's a seafood fiend ! <p> Our youngest had an eating disorder due to a long hospital stay at birth . To get him to eat *anything* was a struggle . <p> My husband and I decided not to sweat his meals during vacation and not to count his calorie intact . Even if he only drank a bottle , we 'd be good with that . <p> On the 2nd day of vacation , he was sitting in his highchair as we ate lunch at Sunshine Seasons in EPCOT . I had a fruit topped dessert next to my plate . As the family was chatting about the morning events , our youngest took a blueberry off my dessert and stuck it in his mouth . <p> We were shocked ! He 'd never taken food by his own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , thinking that I 'd scare him from doing it again . No one said a word though we all tried to act normal . After that one blueberry , he grabbed another ... and another . And he kept going . After that , he wanted to try little bits of food wherever we went . <p> It was still a struggle to get him to eat but this was most definitely a turning point in his therapy . And now , as an 8 year old , he 's an adventurous eater . He 's looking forward to

@@5033741 <p> Content marketing is an umbrella termencompassing all marketing formatsthat involve the creation and sharingof content in order to attract , acquireand engage clearly defined andunderstood current and potentialconsumer bases with the objective ofdriving profitable customeraction . ( Wikipedia ) Content Marketing <p> Content Strategy Content strategy plans for the creation , publication , and governance of useful , usable content . Necessarily , the content strategist must work to define not only which content will be published , but why we 're publishing

@@5033841 <h> February 15 , 2011 <p> Now Tony Quinn predicts Republicans " will be screwed " by the new maps . If I 'm remembering the arcana of the citizen commission , I believe any plan would have to be approved by a majority of Republicans ( and a majority of Democrats , and a majority of DTS commission members ) . Why does that not prevent what Quinn fears ? <p> UPDATE : Tony Quinn saw this original post and sent along this email : <p> Glad somebody reads my stuff , and I read yours . <p> I wanted to show in this article how Republicans could be screwed using the Phil Burton VRA standard -- combine all minority neighborhood no matter how distant into districts in the name of the VRA to increase Democratic registration . I 've seen how that works , and of course it elects white Democrats . Did this happen in 2001 -- you bet . I was the expert witness in a superior court case against the 2001 bipartisan gerrymander ( the one that resulted in less turnover over the past decade than the old Supreme Soviet ) . I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to " enhance the Voting Rights Act . " Of course , they were drawn to favor incumbents , mostly anglo Democrats , and to get minorities out of Republican districts . Whenever both parties are happy about a districting plan , you know the people 's well being is at risk . <p> I also wanted to expose what has been happening to the Commission , and sadly the Commissioners seem unaware of it . When the Secretary of State took over staffing the Commission in January they held a secret process to select the staff . No transparency , you could not even get the names of staffers they were considering hiring , let alone their partisan biases . They hired a Democratic registered executive director , and the first thing he did was try to convince the commissioners top hire , via a no bid single source contract , a firm headed by Karin MacDonald ( who already had one no bid contract with them ) and my old friend from redistricting days past , Professor Bruce Cain . Bruce and Karin have a private business , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Democratic consultant in the 1981 redistricting when I was the GOP consultant . Now they are not about to hire me as a counter weight to Bruce ( not that want to get back into line drawing , been there done that ) . They should not be hiring Bruce and Karin on a sole source contract . <p> Yes , there is plenty to paranoia in the redistricting business , but

@@5033941 <h> Search form <h> The Business of the Ideological Media Is Business <p> There now appears to be a healthy debate going on in Republican circles about the problems created by the information cocoon in which conservatives have embedded themselves in recent years ( I wrote about this last week ) . That 's good for them , but I doubt it 's going to work . My guess is that a couple of years from now , the conservative media 's rhetoric will be just the same as it is now -- just as angry , just as prone to race-baiting , just as unwilling to acknowledge reality when it conflicts with their beliefs . Jonathan Martin of Politico took the time to interview a bunch of younger Repbublican operatives and thinkers , and they all seem to be in agreement that something has to change . But the right has a real generational problem , and it is n't about their leaders . It 's about their audience . <p> Conservative media is a political force , but first and foremost it 's a business . And that business ' primary customers have grown used to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ older white men , and the product is that particular combination of anger , resentment , and contempt for people outside the tribe that has characterized conservative media for so long . Fox News has the oldest audience of any of the cable channels , and they like what Hannity , O'Reilly , and the rest of the gang have been giving them just fine . They like hearing that Barack Obama is a socialist America-hater destroying our country . They like the culture war . It keeps them coming back . So if you were Sean Hannity , and you understood that perfectly well , what incentive would you have to change ? <p> MSNBC is finding success with its turn toward a more explicitly liberal lineup of programs , and they 've done it by understanding their audience as well . Yes , there are some hosts on MSNBC who resemble their Fox counterparts in their stridency . But the network 's biggest star is Rachel Maddow , who is smart , thoughtful , and unfailingly polite to conservatives ( watch her deliver an eloquent plea to Republicans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debate and the entire country ) . Up With Chris Hayes is miles more substantive and interesting than any of the network Sunday shows . These programs appear on MSNBC because that 's what liberals find appealing , and it just so happens that they do n't create the same kind of reality-denying bubble that so many on the right live in . Though Fox 's overall audience is still much larger , MSNBC sometimes beats Fox in what television people call " The Demo , " adults between 25 and 54 , which is pretty striking given Fox 's longstanding dominance . <p> So conservatives and liberals are both getting what they want from their media , and both sides ' media are making money . There 's a nice little anecdote in Martin 's story about Trey Grayson , the establishment figure who was Mitch McConnell 's pick to become Kentucky 's junior senator in 2010 . During the primary , McConnell called Roger Ailes to complain that Grayson was n't getting nearly the airtime on Fox as his opponent , libertarian lunkhead Rand Paul . " Ailes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had tough news for his old friend : Paul was just a better draw . " And that 's what will always

@@5034041 <p> Due to a disk crash and backup failure , this site has been restored from an old backup with a number of more recent articles missing . The missing site content is being restored as time permits . We apologise for any inconvenience . <h> The Mathematics of Monkeys and Shakespeare <h> or " Monkey Claims Copyright on Hamlet : Film at 11 . " <h> Introduction <p> I do n't know who it was that first talked about the possibility of monkeys typing randomly on typewriters producing Hamlet entirely by chance , but it is an argument that I have often heard . " Sure it 's unlikely , " I 'm told , " but given enough time and enough monkeys , it would happen . " <p> This argument is actually quite sound -- given enough time and enough monkeys , one could eventually produce " Hamlet " by accident . The fact that it is intuitively sound is the argument 's greatest problem , because it means that people generally do n't bother checking the exact figures . This is a shame , because it is one of those rare areas of speculation where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problem is that large numbers are rarely understood . Allow me to tell a little joke to demonstrate . <h> The Orders of Magnitude Gag <p> During the US government 's " Strategic Defense Initiative " program , better known as " Star Wars " , leading scientists on the project were asked to report their progress to the Minister of Defense . So they gathered their data and brought it together in a presentation . In short , they had discovered that the whole problem of shooting down a nuclear missile at such a great distance was a very tricky problem indeed . They intended to explain to the minister what an impossible problem it was -- well beyond the capabilities of current technology . During the course of their presentation , the following exchange took place . <p> SCIENTIST : ... and so you can see , Mr Minister , that in order to achieve an acceptable hit-rate against the missiles , our instruments need to be accurate to one part in ten to the ninth . So far , the best we have been able to achieve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MINISTER : That 's tremendous ! We 're over half way there ! <p> Our poor politician completely failed to understand the meaning of the scientist 's statement . Ten to the fifth is not more than half of ten to the ninth . Ten to the fifth is 100,000 and ten to the ninth is 1,000,000,000 . Perhaps our scientist friend would have done better to let the politician see all those zeros -- and then translate it into terms of a budget increase ! <p> This brings me to the question of probability . Just as large numbers are widely misunderstood , there are very few people who appreciate just how unlikely things can be . The monkeys and typewriters scenario sounds possible until you examine the math . What follows is an in-depth discussion of the mathematics of the situation -- it 's very long , but interesting , I think . <h> Monkeys Produce Hamlet : Feasibility Study <p> Let 's imagine a very simple typewriter that has only the 26 upper-case letters , a space bar and five punctuation characters ( a total of 32 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return -- it does an automatic return when the required number of letters have been typed , and it has an infinite roll of paper being fed through it . We have a monkey that knows how to press the keys and will do so in a totally random manner indefinitely . All in all , we have a little bit of machinery , but no real intelligence in the system . We want our monkey to type the following snippet : " TO BE OR NOT TO BE , THAT IS THE QUESTION . " <p> The probability of this happening is quite simple to calculate , and this will in turn give us some idea of how many monkeys and typewriters we need for a reasonable chance of success . Place your bets now -- our monkeys are fast typists and can type the required number of characters in a single second ( there are 41 keystrokes ) ! On average , how long will it be before one of our monkeys produces a line matching the above sentence ? <p> Well , there are 32 keys , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ monkey getting the first keypress right are one in 32 . Not good , but we have fast monkeys and lots of time . However , once it has got the first keystroke right , we also need the second keystroke to be right , otherwise we are back to square one . The chances of it getting the first and second keystrokes right are only one in ( 32*32 = 1024 ) . Only one chance in 1024 , but still lots of time to get it right . To get the first three characters right will be a one in ( 32*32*32 = 32768 ) chance . Each time it presses a key , there is a one in 32 chance that it will be correct . To get our little snippet of Hamlet , it will need a total of 41 consecutive " correct " keystrokes . This means that the chances are one in 32 to the power of 41 . Let 's look at a table of values . <p> The last figure is included only because it is the largest value that the MS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my hand-held Casio ( old faithful ! ) which only goes up to 1e+99 . Okay , so these figures are pretty vast , but we have a lot of monkeys and they can type fast . So how long will it take , on average , for one of my monkeys to type a line matching that sentence ? Hard question . Let 's get an idea of how long we are talking here . How many lines can my monkey type in a year , given that it types at a rate of one line per second ? <p> 1 line per second * 60 seconds per minute = 60 lines per minute * 60 minutes per hour = 3600 lines per hour * 24 hours per day = 86400 lines per day * 365.24 days per year = 31556736 lines per year <p> Okay , now for the moment of truth . We know how many possible different lines can be produced , hence how likely it is for us to get the right one at random ( because only one is right ) . We can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most easily by calculating the chances of missing on every attempt : the chances of getting the quote will be 100% minus the chances of missing on every attempt . I need a really amazingly precise calculator to do this because the chances of missing are so close to 100% that most calculators will round it off to 100% . The calculation is as follows . <p> If you have access to Unix , you can calculate this with the dc command , but be warned that it may take quite a while to calculate and annoy other users because the computer is so slow . Use of the nice command is suggested . The syntax , should you care to try , is as follows . Type the dc command , then type the following lines . <p> 99k 1 1 32 41 / - 60 60 24 365 p <p> The figure that is eventually printed will be the probability ( expressed as a value between zero and one ) of our monkey not typing our little phrase from Hamlet in the space of one year 's worth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like this : <p> Notice all the nines ? Even to fifty or more significant figures , this reads 100% . Okay , so realistically , there is no way that our monkey can do its job in a year . Maybe we should start talking centuries ? Millenia ? As I understand it , common scientific wisdom suggests that the universe is about 15 billion years old ( although they may have revised their dating since I last heard about it ) . We can easily extend our current figure of one year to count many years . Our calculator will be much faster if we break the calculation down to powers of two and just use the " square " operation , so let 's choose a nice even power of two like 234 , which is about 17 billion ( 17,179,869,184 to be precise ) . The new figure is : <p> The chances of failure are still essentially 100% , even after 234 years . Hmmm . It does n't look like were are going to get very far with this , but just for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any better off with a lot of monkeys . Let 's not hold back here -- I hypothesize 17 billion galaxies , each containing 17 billion habitable planets , each planet with 17 billion monkeys each typing away and producing one line per second for 17 billion years . What are the chances of the phrase " TO BE OR NOT TO BE , THAT IS THE QUESTION . " not being included in the output ? <p> I 'd bet money on that . It 's about 99.999999999995% sure that they would fail to produce the sentence . Are you astounded ? It 's such a trivial requirement , right ? Just one puny sentence . And yet the figures keep coming up " impossible " . Where have we made a mistake ? We have fallen into the same trap as the politician who was the subject of my joke , way back up there . We have failed to appreciate the sheer magnitude of the problem . Let 's look at it one more time . <p> The number of 41-character strings that are possible with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ value is as follows . <p> **40;7387;TOOLONG ... <p> In case you do n't feel like counting , this value is 62 digits long . In our hypothesising above , we imagined 17 billion galaxies , each with 17 billion planets , each with 17 billion monkeys , each of which was producing a line of text per second for 17 billion years . How many lines of text did we wind up producing in this experiment ? The math is as follows : <p> 234 * 234 * 234 * 234 * 365 * 24 * 60 * 60 <p> And the answer is as follows : <p> **40;7429;TOOLONG ... <p> Once again , in case you do n't feel like counting , the answer is 49 digits long . Now , there is no guarantee that our monkeys are going to type something different every time , but even if we managed to rig up the experiment so that they never tried the same thing twice , they have still only produced 1/18,718,157,355,362 of the possible alternatives . The denominator in that fraction is 14 digits long , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vastly bigger than anything you would come across in the real world . Is it any wonder , in light of that , that it is so damn hard to get the right answer by accident ? <h> Conclusion <p> In light of this , I find it impossible to believe that " chance " had anything to do with the process that created life . How can I suppose that Shakespeare himself was the result of a random process when it is quite clearly impossible for even a trivial fragment of his work to have arisen by chance ? No sir , I see information all around me , and I conclude that it is the product of a far , far greater intelligence . <p> Information is the product of intelligence , not chance . <h> Postscript <p> If you read the thesis above , you will agree at least that if the universe did arise by chance , it must be truly infinite and in the continuous process of trying out new alternatives . That , and the universe as we know it is an incomprhensibly unlikely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more " natural " , I might say ) to suppose that there is a God who is greater than the

@@5034141 <p> The moment that hundreds of barrier island residents of Toms River have been waiting for will begin tomorrow . <p> The Township of Toms River announced residents ravaged by Hurricane Sandy on the barrier island will be allowed access for 60 minutes , with different communities assigned to different days of access . <p> Regardless , residents of such communities as Chadwick Beach , Silver Beach , Dover Beaches , Normandy Beach , Monterey Beach and Ocean Beach communities of Toms River will have to register at the Bellcrest Plaza on Fischer Boulevard and Cattus Island Boulevard . <p> Ortley Beach , the township says , has yet to have a plan for re-entry . The above communities , many of which are north of Ortley Beach , will have access Friday , Nov. 9 through Nov. 13 . <p> Residents have clamored for any information for days , as neighboring communities of Lavallette , South Seaside Park , Seaside Heights and Seaside Park were granted earlier access and announced plans to visit their homes and businesses on the barrier island . <p> Perhaps one of the last towns to release its plans , Toms River Township posted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nov. 13 in the first phase of access . <p> The plan : <p> " We are beginning re-entry into the northern beach areas . Ortley Beach will be scheduled at a later date due to extensive road damage , " according to the township . <p> Friday November 9 : <p> Ocean Beach Unit 1 <p> Ocean Beach Shores <p> Sunset Manor Shores <p> Registration at 8:30 a.m . Bellcrest Plaza , Fischer Blvd . <p> Saturday November 10 : <p> Monterey Beach <p> Ocean Beach Unit 2 <p> Seacrest Beach <p> Registration at 8:30 a.m . Bellcrest Plaza , Fischer Blvd . <p> Sunday November 11 <p> Ocean Beach Unit 3 <p> Ocean Beach Peninsula ( Bayside ) <p> Registration at 8:30 a.m . Bellcrest Plaza , Fischer Blvd . <p> Monday November 12 <p> Chadwick Beach <p> Silver Beach <p> Chadwick Beach Island is not included . Residents there will be scheduled at a later date until bridge is inspected and found to be safe . Please do not respond on this date . <p> Registration at 8:30 a.m . Bellcrest Plaza , Fischer Blvd . <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is the tentative date for Chadwick Beach Island is November 13 . <p> Registration at 8:30 a.m . Bellcrest Plaza , Fischer Blvd . <p> This access plan is called Phase One . In Phase One , residents will be transported to the barrier island on a Toms River Regional school bus , allowed 60 minutes to gather essential items that can fit in a suitcase on your lap , and then be escorted out . Residents are essentially entering their homes at their own risk , according to the announcement . <p> Here are the rules for Phase One : <p> In Phase One , there is limited entry to the island for full-time residents only . <p> Phase Two allows homeowners who are not permanent residents to inspect their property and collect essential personal items . <p> Phase Three allows any resident and contractors to winterize and assess damage . <p> As part of the plan announcement , Toms River Township released the following message : <p> " Toms River Township is dedicated to serve its citizens and will continue to work in conjunction with state and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manner . Thank you for your patience and understanding during these difficult times , " <p> The plan leaves out Ortley Beach community , a section of the township which Mayor Tom Kelaher referred to as " Ground Zero . " <p> " At this time the Toms River Police Department is implementing a plan which would enable residents of the Township to access their barrier island homes and businesses . Since the beginning of this event Toms River Township has actedin the best interest of the citizens of Toms River . Toms River Township is proud to report that we have had no loss of life or serious injury since the start of this disaster . We plan to keep it that way , and this is why we will continue tomove forward in an organized fashion regarding entry to this devastated area . We fully understand the frustrationour residents have endured with the inability to view their homes , and we are working diligently to accomplish this goal , " according to the township announcement . <p> Anger and frustration grew as residents begged and flooded town hall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and emails wondering when a plan would come . <p> Toms River Police Chief Michael Mastronardy said the number of calls were such that it became a drain on resources as emergency personnel were flooded with calls in the midst of several weather emergencies through today . <p> We have had a family house in Ortley Beach for more than 60 years . This is home , this is our family , this is generations of memories . We need closure . We need to see what is left of our personal property . We need to see our home . Yet , the local government wo n't let us in to see our homes before they are removed ! We are hearing today that they are removing homes that have deemed beyond repair without notifying the homeowner . We are also hearing that they are removing cars , backyard sheds and other personal property . This is not right ! What country are we living in ? Is this legal ? <p> We realize that this is a dangerous environment , but have the common decency to communicate with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they take their life away . It is bad enough that we have suffered this catastrophe , but do not kick us when we are down . As for full-time vs. part-time residents , we all pay the same taxes . We deserve to have equal rights when visiting our homes . Every day that goes by , the more damaged they will become . Toms River officials , you must reconsider your re-entry plan ! <p> Frank , I agree with you . We know our houses and we know how to safely enter our home .. The comment made by Jersey Strong needs a reaction . 1 . Change your name to Jersey Wimp. 2 . The looters are already there . <p> Saw the streets ... rode out the storm .... some streets are dangerous ( Ocean , Bay Blvd. , Rt 35 North ) ... some pretty good . Some areas ... water damage for sure , but most houses still there ... between A &P; through Lavalette between Rt . 35 S &; Bay Blvd . Not sure why these residents ca n't gain access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in mind ... some of these full time residents are RENTERS ... not even taxpayers ) , my shore house has stuff than my other property .... I was retiring there . And , Christie 's Executive Order does NOT dictate who can gain access . Who is coming up with this discriminatory definition ? <p> There are many areas that are intact - other than water damage . These areas should be opened up to allow homeowners access to do damage control . Controlled access could still be in place so that some areas where damage is severe would be off limits . <p> I agree , this is total bull shit ! ! ! block off the streets in ortley that are dangerous and let those of us who has homes on streets that are ok to get to . If they can travel through ortley on bay blvd to get to ocean beach , chadwick , normandy , lavalette . Than let us in too ! ! ! <p> this need to be taken to court . They can not keep us away from our property , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of control government . We need to rise up against these out of control control freaks <p> They are trying to secure the area and make it safe . I understand we 're all adults but what happens when you get hurt and no one can get to you ? Or you tie up someone who could be saving someone who needs it when your injury could have been prevented . <p> Sadly James there are n't enough people who can see this as you and I do . It has been 11 days . It is time to let us drive to our homes . Call the governors office and demand that he lift the emergency powers that he enacted and that are being used to deny us our constitutional rights . <p> I agree . Its time everyone band together and we hire a lawyer . Toms River Township needs to be held accountable for their bad decisions in not allowing homeowners access to their property to remove wet carpeting , etc , to prevent further damage . <p> I think that access prior to the natural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further disaster . I would simply ask that the homeowners wanting to get back into areas that are still deemed hazardous do so only after signing a waiver and a hold harmless agreement with the municipality . No option to sue the town/taxpayers in the event that you are injured or your house collapses on you . Without that , I think the powers that be are behaving prudently in what is a very litigious society . <p> totally agreed . this BS about only full time residents getting access should be contested . Part time owners pay the same tax rate do n't we ? In fact we put less of a burden on the township than full timers ( some renters ) so much to say , but my blood pressure is rising ... <p> We were finally allowed to go to our home on Dolphin ave yesterday , could n't take all of the things we wanted because we WERE ON A BUS . who gave toms river the power to tell me what part of my property i have to leave behind to get infested by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ action , has anyone done any research or spoke to an attorney yet ? we would also be interested in joining a lawsuit .... by the time they let us drive in our stuff will no longer be salvageable ! ! <p> This is only for full time residents - you would need to prove residency via drivers license , etc . Basically there is no date yet for part time homeowners . We are no better off other than seeing the progress of the plan for the full-time residents . <p> We are not part time homeowners . Just because we have another residence does not make us part time . If that was the case we should only be paying part time taxes . For one thing , us so called part time homeowners do not use the township services all year long and we do n't use the school system . So actually , we are paying more taxes and we definitely should have more rights to our homes than a renter with a utility bill or a driver licenses . <p> @bluebeam ... being I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now I 'm a " part time " but 90% of my " crap " is still there being I only rent a basement apt for my primary home what does that make me ? it 's not my primary residence but the only home I own with all my belongings ... everyone has different situations so its pretty unfair to categorize people that way ... we all pay the same taxes mortgages insurance ect and just because its not where we stay all year does nt mean its not the only home we own ... I would live there all year if I did nt get laid off every year from sept to may <p> By now unsafe areas can be blocked off . Residents should be able to drive in , gather our belongings and put debris out by the curb . This is getting to be totally ridiculous and unbelievable . This should be illegal keeping us from our property and the Governor should get involved with this ASAP . Where do they get off telling us we can going into our private homes for one ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suitcase of personal items . Here 's what 's going to happen to our properties . Any property that was n't damaged from the storm , is going to be condemned for mold . Work that will NOT be able to be done by us , the home owner . The area will be declared a health hazard by the DEP . We will be locked out of our homes with no say for months , while they do what they want . You know thats whats coming . They said , next phase we will be able to come back and winterize our homes . They did n't say clean out . We need to plan a march over the bridge . <p> I agree . The houses on the west side of 35south are accessible and the roads are pretty clear in these areas . Mst of the damage was or is from water entering the houses . We all needto get to our houses to remove wet carpeting , furniture , etc. before the mold really sets in . The clock is ticking and the politicians need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ houses are all still intact . It is easy to see what these areas are on the NOAA aerial images site . The aerial images show those areas that are clear and safe and those that are not . <p> Yes , agree with you . My sons home on West point Island was lucky . No water in the home , but shingles missing from roof . If that is not fixed immediately the home will have damage in it ( water and mold ) . The road leading into WPI is safe and can be driven on . What he heck is the problem . We should organize a walk over the bridge . <p> 5 days scheduled and still no word on Ortley Beach access - the fact that the bus tour scenario in itself is a totally useless is a whole other issue . All the areas listed above need to pass through Ortley to get to their locations ... so what is wrong with this picture ... ? SUGGESTION : Areas in each community with the least damage and most accessibility should be the starting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ FT residents and then all homeowners access to their properties . Once that is done the areas with more damage should be safer and in better shape due to continuing clean up/repair efforts . There have been people on the ground for days now - Emergency Mgmt teams should be able to determine the best places to start and actually give people enough time to get essential things done . Things need to move faster ... use the tax dollars from barrier island homes to hire more people to coordinate this effort , if that is what is needed to get the job done ! <p> Too true . NOTE : taxed-out-the-wazoo mentions that he saw areas with minimal damage before he left the island - they are the same areas that show little damage via satelitte pictures . Anyone with eyes can see this . On the ground emergency crews can confirm this . Local government needs to stop wasting time spewing rhetoric at us and start accomplishing something . <p> I agree . This is ridiculous , and it should be illegal . They should let us sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't get to our houses , they will be damages further by the elements and mold . Count me in for action against big government . <p> I have the same issue ... although im the one who 's lived there but my parents own it , but they are both sick with serious illnesses and only my hhusband 's dl has our ortley beach adress on it and the taxes are in my parents name ... they really are making this a lot more difficult than it has to be ... my father would be able to make the trip but ca n't help with anything so I would need my husband 's help , but they only allow 2 ... it 's all a mess ... all I want to do is protect the property from further damage being I already know thatthere was only flood damage and one broken window and get my 5 year olds things out of the attic ... from what I understand you have to provide proof your a full time resident at this point so it prob will be a while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get power of attorney for them or something <p> Pete R - exactly . We do n't have flood insurance and I 'm sure we got water . The sooner we can address the better we will be . Who 's going to pay when the damage goes beyond normal repair ? ? ? ? There has got to be some type of action that we can take . Any lawyers out there ? ? ? ? ! ! ! ! <p> I would be happy to contribute in hiring a lawyer . We need to all band together and do something . Toms River Township has no idea what they are doing to properties by prohibiting us from removing wet items from our homes , mold will certainly finish things off . <p> We really need a class action lawsuit started to wake them up ... it has to name TR , OC , The State of NJ , and Christie ... otherwise it will not be taken seriously . I have friends in Seaside Park reporting looting already . We must be able to get in and protect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... I can not believe none are attorneys ... I can not believe none have come forward to volunteer services or at least discounted services . <p> First thing to do is to file a Notice of Tort Claim outlining how you are being damaged by delays in allowing re-entry. this alerts ( required notice ) the twp that are going to sue and gives them a chance to take action to correct the situation.You shouldalert your insurance companies also , letting them know you are not allowed in , because most insurance polciys require that you mitigate your damages in a claim situation , but here you ca n't mitigate , because the twp wo n't let you . Urge your insurer to advocate on your behalf with the twp . Additionally , your property rights are being denied . <p> They 've sure had enough time to determine where there is no damage , but water damage . Full time , or part time , residents should be allowed one weekend to get down there , thrown out anything that will cause mold damage and be on our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to start repairs , just let us contain the damage that has already occurred ... PLEASE ? ? ? ? ? I do n't want my house to look worse than Bin Laden 's beard as that untreated wetness becomes a hazardous mold situation . I said it before and I 'll say it again , if that part of Mantoloking could be filled in , wth ca n't twenty-two potholes , 8 or less feet deep , be filled so we can drive there . By the way , if Lavallette residents were allowed in , how did they get into their town ? It sure was n't across the Mantoloking bridge . Was that roadway repaired fast enough to allow THEM in ? I want the route that they took . More power to Lavallette for taking their residents needs into consideration ! Now let the rest of us do what we have to . <p> Gail - Seaside residents and non-residents ( PROPERTY OWNERS/TAXPAYERS ) are driving their personal vehicles in .... TODAY . And , they are not being placed into " time out " after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3:00 . Also , Mayor commented that construction is causing add'l problems . Does anyone know ... is the debris being taken off the island to clear the highways or is it being placed/dumped into OB 's side streets like a trash disposal area ? And , do these workers ( all of them ) have catastrophic disaster background ... are they Township people or experts ? Does anyone know ? <p> It is disgusting . That woman who blathers on about her iPad is particularly obnoxious and particularly insensitive to the plight of Ortley homeowners who have lost so much . It 's outrageous that these imbeciles were able to tour our community and we are n't allowed to see our homes . <p> The fact is everyone that it is a hazard for you to be there . It is also nearly impossible to get to most homes on the island . I understand your pain and deeply sorry for your losses . But at this time there is no way for you to access them and they are doing everything they can for you to get to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is a inlet at the end and ca n't get any where is not going to do much good . Please understand that they are doing everything they can so you can safely get to your homes . <p> Jim , route 35 is clear and there are buses and cars using it for travel both north and southbound travel . Granted , there are some areas that should be off limits due to safety reasons , but many areas are intact and safe especially on the bayside up near Normandy Shores and some areas of Silver Beach . Property owners in these areas should be allowed to return to their homes to do some damage control like removing wet carpeting to reduce mold damage and to winterize . Toms River Township is adding to property losses by prohibiting these owners to do what is necessary to salvage what they have left . <p> John , I 'll be at the march over the bridge on Nov. 11 at 10am with my 3 children ready to talk to any TV crews and radio stations that you can contact . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I 've had more then enough . Stop lying to me and my children . I want my children 's belongings out of MY HOUSE now . I call on all parents and grandparents of Ortley Beach to come to the march . All Toms River families please join us and show your support for our children who are being made to suffer . Shame on you , Mayor , for inflicting such trauma on the children of Ortley Beach ! <p> Do n't know if you guys have not noticed but the whole state has been hit by this storm . Most of Ocean county is still without power . The man power is being spread out to cover the entire state not just your area . I see that you are in a place where you have power and internet service ! My family is still in the dark with NO power , NO heat , NO phone and No home . So stop bitching you self centered self serving whining babies . March over and off the bridge and take pictures ! Shame on you idiots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ phone and my car to charge it ... you may have no power but at least you get to be home .... look at how many people are living in shelters without a single belonging ... I 'd take no power and a roof personally <p> Same old story Ortley Beach shafted . Lavallette allowed to pass thru our town cause their officials live in town . Mayor of Toms river lives across the bridge . So the residents of Ortley as usual are being subjected to third class citizen status . We will sign waivers etc . Let us get our belongings and begin the next phase rebuilding our homes . <p> JIM , thank you for your concern and sympathy . Spoken like a true politician And by the way . The inlet that you speak of , is that the same inlet that the buses , cars and trucks continue to drove over ? CUBANO1 , Sorry for your families lost and your frustation . But obviously you are assuming that everyone commenting here is sitting in that lap of luxury . And that I 'm going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They can be with family members , shelters or working off the Internet on their phones . And for some , that might be their only posession . Many are suffering with losses , just like you and your family . So maybe you can stop with your self center ness , whining and name calling . Consider yourself lucky , as we all should that we 're alive and survivors . <p> LAVALETTE .... LAVALETTE .... LAVALETTE ! ! ! Ortley Beach needs to seek aslyum with Lavalette ... a gov't that cares about its residents . I recall a story within the past couple of years that several streets in Ortley that border Lavalette were able to become part of Lavalette because Toms River forgot about them during snow storms ... they were stuck ... did n't clean their streets , did n't get them out ... gave them no attention ... zero . Hey , sound familiar ? ANyway , the Court ruled to allow them to become part of Lavalette Township . If I find the name of the case/news article , I 'll post it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leslie Ellis from Berkley Patch in Michigan . I just wanted to let you know that we are thinking of you and sending positive thoughts your way ! Folks around here are donating to blood drives and sending supplies to the East Coast . We want to see you back on your feet as soon as possible after this terrible storm and ca n't imagine what you 've been through . <p> I submitted 2 aerial photos above of the Ortley &; Normandy area taken Fri . Nov. 2 . The Ocean Air Support Squadron was asked by county OEM to take " after Sandy " photos of the areas of interest for local good guys . I posted the full 350+ photos on www.oceanblacksheep.com &gt;&gt; photo/video/slideshow link . A positive note to a sad event was that folks not allowed back were seeing their local area from 1,000ft . We started in Lacey , flew up to Pt . Pleasant , down the coast to Holegate . The flight gave most comfort that their home was standing . Please , please listen to local good guys and obey the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through our eyes , the county overview that day . Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all . r/Ocean Blacksheep <p> I looked at the pictures and it 's unbelievable . I will be there on Tuesday for the first time . My heart is broken for everyone who has lost something or someone from this storm . I pray we will be back ....... <p> We need access to our homes there is no difference full time or part time residents our bills and taxes are the same we are all in this together and do not let them devide us or we will lose our right we are home owners and we need to stop the mold damage and clean and secure our homes with out part time owner the full timers would not be able to live there part timers pay there share and use only a small amount of resources smarten up people we want to help our shelves we ca n't expect the official to do we must do it ourselves united we stand divided we fall <p> The plan of course does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and pay taxes on those homes . I find this an interesting legal question as only Martial Law can define this kind of second class citizen status treatment by a local government . It certainly sounds like they are setting themselves up for mass chaos and legal problems making a really bad situation a lot worse . <p> I agree . Even though we do n't live there full time we are at our shore house on holidays and on weekends and we pay the same ridiculously high taxes that everyone else pays . Maybe because we are n't there all the time , our taxes should be adjusted downward . <p> I am also concerned about the damage that will occur if the township continues to delay our access to our homes . I hope the insurance companies with not begin to limit their coverage based on damage that was caused by the storm and the damage that was caused by mold being allowed to fester for weeks . I would not put it past insurance companies . I also agree with the previous post regarding tax payers should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this be illegal ? <p> I live in Ortley full time . I want to be part of a coalition . I can not believe the people in these towns have accepted these terms without a fight . We are being treated unfairly and like we are in kindergarten . Take out what we can carry on our lap in the bus ? ? ? My winter clothes alone would n't fit on my lap ! What about personal papers , photo albums , electronics , guns , valuables ? ? ? Why must we choose what will stay , and be destroyed further by the mold and moisture ? This country was built on self reliancy , not by depending on local government . Why are we letting them do this to us and everything we worked so hard for ? ? ? Have we no backbone anymore ? I will be part of any coalition to bring this to an end ... I will be a front runner if need be , but we need to do something now ... before it is too late . romulusmedusa@aol.com 201-655-4717 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ twice in your last 2 posts . Our taxes on the barrier island for the so called " Benny 's " is what supports Toms River tax base . I 'm sure most Benny 's did n't close up their homes for the winter yet . AND , there should be no difference between full and part time . <p> Barnegat Ray , I 'm in . I made a suggestion last night about a rally for Sunday morning . Are there any attorneys reading this that can help out . On a side note , LBI is going to start letting people in , except Hollgate . If their homes were n't damaged they will be able to occupy them . <p> We need to be very organized , and put pressure on the correct people ... people who can actually make things happen . This talk of storming the bridge will not work ... it is too narrow , and there are too many state and local police ... they will block it in a minute , and people will get hurt or arrested . We need a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sticks and stones ... we need to have legal and political power behind us . <p> So what a lot of you pricks are saying is that because I am a renter I have no rights to my stuff ? Well I have rented the same house on that island for 15 years and my whole life is in that house that is still standing . I want my stuff . <p> Joe , I believe if you read the description of the plan on the Toms River website , you can get in if you can prove your residency . I am assuming that since you have lived there for 15 years , your drivers license , bank statment , credit card bills , etc. , have your address on it . You do n't need to be a homeowner , just a full time resident of one of the areas that is currently allowing people back in . This is pretty much the Toms River Secion of Normandy down through the Ocean Beaches . Just not Ortley Beach yet . I do n't see anywhere where it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is - maybe the person who owns the home you rent is going and can help you out ? <p> I would need a moving truck to get my stuff out . The plan is for 2 suit cases on stuff you can take out on a bus . I have proof of residency . I do n't know many people that can fit there life in two small suit cases . <p> So do your protest over the bridge , what would that accomplish ? Jail time for everyone , tresspassing , making terrioristic threats ? Ill be their with my video camera for this instant you tube classic of idiots being arrested . Listen to the police and governement they know what they are doing . Its for your own safety . <p> Assume they know what they 're doing ! ! ! ! ? Not always ! Government/police have made poor decisions in the past . That is why we need to be there ... we just need people to show up ... not actually go over the bridge . This is a peaceful protest to let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are handling this ! ! ! <p> Joe : No one said that you or any other renter with a 15 year history should not be able to get your belongings . As a 40 year homeowner in Ortley Beach . I feel that you have as much right to collect your belongings as I do . Hey Tommy : Whats wrong with a gathering with alerting news crews . No one said trespassing or making terrioristic threats . We can see the type of person you are are by your belittling comments . And your comment , " Listen to the police and governement they know what they are doing . " Good one ! ! <p> Joe sounds quite ignorant . He needs to think before commenting . We are only trying to unite citizens to be heard . Call news 12 if you have Cablevision and other tv stations to get the word out . Sunday @ 10am . <p> Check out the sites below . These pictures are from 8/9 days ago . What makes you think Ortley and the roads are n't 8/9 times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that was driving a bulldozer in Ortley . I said that there is no reason why we should be able to drive in , clean and grab our belongings . Block off areas that are not accessible . In Hurricane Hugo Florida residents were in there homes cleaning up the day after . <p> Thank God for these satalite photos ! The local politicians do n't want you to know how little damage most of the island suffered . It is evidence that shows they are lying to us to keep us from driving onto the island . <p> I hope every protester gets thrown in jail along with all the looters . You no better then them because now your interfering with cleanup and become a hazard . So everyone put on your pick boy and girl pants on , and wait for orders like good people . <p> Toms River just updated their website with an important piece of information . It previously stated that everyone needed to be a resident . Now it says that only one needs to be a resident . So for those of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go to help them . One of them needs to go with you to show their identification what ever proof the township is requiring , but they can bring a non resident with them . Thank goodness . When you talk about the full time residents of the island , you are talking about a significant amount of older , retired people . <p> Lauren : I posted 2 aerial photos of our flight on Fri. 11/2 to this story , take a peek .. Look at the thread above to Mike Maino . I took an area just south of the Thunderbiird . Several burned lots . So sad . We flew from Point Pleasant to Holegate . Your first OMG was Mantoloking , Bay Head . Next was your area , next Ortley . I can forward to you photos you can zoom to your area of interest . We all share your loss . r/Mike Maino PAO , www.oceanblacksheep , com <p> I can understand wanting people to be safe when returning to the island , and to avoid looters getting onto it ... but these are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is THEIR property ! 1st home or 2nd home , they paid for it and pay taxes on it ... let them in ! There are certainly a lot of people walking around in every stinkin ' video of the place put on YouTube ! <p> seriously ? just got a notification that my in laws from ss hts do nt have to pay their property taxes until 12/17 without penalities . They are in the worst hit area on the bay . omg , cant take this anymore . <p> Just watched NEW12 NJ helicopter over Ortley for 10 minutes . ALL ROADS to the beach are accessible 3/4 of the way up the streets . Ocean Ave is gone . Rt.35 North and South as well as middle blocks between the highway and west of Rt35S bayside is clear . <p> I can see my house in this picture . It 's looks ok . It 's interesting , however , the people walking down 3rd St in Ortley and all the cars parked on Rt 35 . I thought it was too dangerous .... Do they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appalling that people are complaining that full time residents are being allowed first access to the island . What has happened to human decency ? Did it occur to any of you complainers that these people have lost EVERYTHING ? ? ? ? They were evacuated from the island with probably just an over night bag , figuring that they would be back the next day . And now while we sit in our OTHER homes , they are homeless ! ! ! ! ! I understand that we all pay taxes and should have the same rights , but lets have a little compassion here . Let the full time residents go back first and try to salvage some personal items . I happen to know a full time resident that would like to get back to retrieve her fathers ahses . We have all experienced loss from this tragedy and all of our homes are going to need repair in some way . Yes , the water damage will get worse by the day , and yes the mold is going to grow more and more . But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at your shore house , try to remember the people who do n't even know where they will be spending the holidays ... or the next 6-8months for that matter ! <p> I think the issue is not a lack of compassion for people who have lost everything but rather anger at the delay . I think if the day after the storm they had asked everyone to wait for full time residents to clean out first there would n't have been an outcry at all . But two weeks after the hurricane patience has run out and tempers are frayed . We should n't let them divide us - we want EVERYONE with a legitimate interest there to be able to get on the island . <p> I would whose house he is taking things from .... Further , interesting that he can give an interview from the streets of Ortley ( with media trucks etc ) but it 's too dangerous for us to go there . I keep trying to figure out the real reason why they wo n't let us in and I 'm not coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ something that I am pretty sure is going to piss a few people off , but I feel it should be mentioned ... as a former " full time " resident of the Barrier Island , I have lived through several Nor Easters , been heavily flooded , and had to watch as my family has restored our homes , time and time again ... that being said , I now live in Toms River , near the water and have seen complete loss and devastation on this side of the bridge ... I COMPLETELY understand the frustration of " NOT BEING ALLOWED " back to your residences , but there were a lot of people on this side that have NO homes to return to as well , and some that will have to demolish their homes and rebuild entirely . You are complaining about being treated like " third class citizens " because you live on the island however there are people on the mainland that are suffering the same losses . From Toms River to Brick or even farther North such as the Shark River area or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ YOUR LOCATION , and those of us who now reside on this side of the bridge are seeing how frustrated you are , but please know that some of our own neighbors can not return to their homes either . Looting , robberies , flooding , fires . PLEASE understand you are NOT the only victims and nobody other than maybe our lovely politicians would turn our backs on you and underestimate your stress and heartache . And no matter what the " satellite photos " may show from above , it 's what lies beneath can be deadly . <p> Having also lived on a barrier island for many years , and now live bayfront , I agree completely . This is with complete understanding of the frustration of not being able to return . It really is unsafe , with sinkholes , etc . My heart breaks for all who lost so much ( and yes , I did too ) . You are not alone . I hope we can all get through this nightmare together , as a community . <p> I do n't mean this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mainland have to do with them not letting us on the island to see our homes in Ortley Beach . I wish no one had any damage but the one has nothing to do with the other . I 'm not mad at Toms River because of the damage but because they wo n't let me start the process of fixing it and Toms River is actively making it worse . <p> I was absolutely appalled today driving down Route 37 eastbound when at the Delta gas station on Route 37 and Clifton avenue I noticed a display of shirts set up for sale . The shirts had printed on them " I survived hurricane Sandy " . How inappropriate and tasteless this is . There were people whom lost their lives from this storm and communities that have been wiped out . Then I look at the westbound side of 37 and see 4 Central Regional busses that transported displaced homeowners to gather what they possibly could hold from what is left of their homes . These poor people had to see this display of shirts . It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feels the same why I do and do not patronize this gas station ever again . <p> Yes , people ... IT IS DANGEROUS ! I get it ... if I could not get into my home I , too , would be furious ! You should be taking this up with your Mayor , etc . Christie is only going by what THEY are relaying to him . It , in my opinion , is your local officials . I just returned from a " get-together " with a bunch of people dislocated from the barrier island and not once did I hear " me or I " ... it was " how are your and your family doing " . Not all barrier Island people are ready to start a war and mad at the Gov , they just want answers from their local officials ! Storm the bridge if you must ... its your right . God Bless you all in this time of trial and tribulation . <p> Nancy , AGREED ...... Here is a quote from Gov Christies ' speech . " Christie said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retrieve belongings and permit repopulation of the island for residents whose homes are safe and habitable . People should procede with caution as there is still a lot of work going on and dangerous conditions in many areas " . Work is continuing in LBI , while the residents return . They have not electric and must boil their water . And without signing waivers ! Why is this not the same for Ortley and the surrounding area . They have been working in Ortley for 10 days . Rope off the worn , torn beach area and the part of Bay Blvd . Sink hole should be rope off by now . To familys who lost homes , on both sides of the bridge . To homes owners and renters . This is not about someone who has 1 house in TR or someone who has a house at the shore and 1 elsewhere . Some of us work very hard for what we have . This is about our Governor listening to OUR LOCAL POLITICIANS KEEPING US FROM OUR HOMES . FOR REASONS OF THEIR OWN . And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ No one said storm the bridge , it was march . <p> I think we need a presence at the 37 bridge tomorrow at 10 am to show our disagreement with the ongoing denial to access our ortley properties after 2 weeks by the local and state levels of government . " Channel 7 on your side " has been notified by an ortley resident and hopefully more cameras will be present . Yes I am aware of safety hazards in the area . NOT every street is decimated . The A &; P parking lot is the command center they have been there for 2 weeks . I can see the a &; P from my house its not in a sink hole.Let us enter OUR fully taxed paid homes . Block off sink holes with barricades and limit access on those streets with police escort . I am not saying move back in , just let us in . RISE UP PEOPLE . I will be there at the bridge . Hope u will be there too . <p> How about a gathering at the bridge blockade . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stop . Thats the place where when its our turn to catch the bus ride that drives you over the bridge . We can all wave our hands in the air when we 're on the top and yell " yippee " as we go over the water . Then we get dropped off and are told to hurry kids . Go pack your 1 suitcase from that house that you pay our town , Toms River , all your tax $$ to , out of all your possessions and hurry back . The next bus has to come over . If anyone , after almost 2 weeks feels this is right . I pray for you . <p> Unbelievable ! Lavallette also is allowing only certain full time residents to collect belongings first . Based upon " safe " streets " . There is no mention of a schedule for when we will be able to go over to the island . We are waiting for the " mysterious " email to be invited on the bus . Such BS . My family has owned our home since 1969 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The town needs to allow OWNERS and residents back to their properties to start cleaning the mold problems ! Hello Governor Christie ! Are you listening ? <p> be thankful you evacuated because carrying people on their backs in raging water was hard for the responders .... along with risking their lives ... its hard i get it , but do nt make them have to come and get you all again when a road sinks or a house blows up <p> Kudos to all first responders always at the ready . Now its time for remediation of our homes . I helped gut a one story home last year with Irene . My cousin had 3 feet in her home , the stench was unbelievable and yes it was warmer then , but it was only 1 week later not weeks and WEEKS later . The entire 1st floor was ripped to the studs . Now in our homes the subfloors will also have to be ripped out bc they are buckle ing due to stagnant water still there . PLEASE LET US GET IN OUR HOMES GOV'NER . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take care of our tax paying homes ! <p> I 'm looking for a single rider , male or female going to Chadwick Beach in the morning on the bus to retrieve your belongings . If you are going by yourself . I 've had a house in Ortley for the past 40 yrs . Its just night my turn on the bus yet . I would like to accompany you on this nightmare . I am a professional video and photographer . In addition to helping you carry out an extra suit case . I will also document this experience for us as well as giving you a copy , AT NO CHARGE . For yourself and your insurance company . You can contact me at jes352002@yahoo.com and I will get back to you ASAP . John <p> Here is mayors Kelaher 's email adress **30;8669;TOOLONG . Start pounding him with emails why and when is Ortley Beach getting in . With the warm days the mold is spreading faster and we need to do something before we all lose our homes . And where is his support , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sandy hit us . I have a feeling he does n't care about Ortley Beach , just cares about our tax dollars . Something has to happen now , it will be 2 weeks and still ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! <p> Hi Matt-Guess what ... I have been informed by my sources about some backdoor politicking going on . My friends-not members went to the Ortley Beach VOTERS and Taxpayer Association for additional information . Again , not members of the association ( which Association by the way has NO legal or governmental authority yet the Officials have specifically hand-picked them to be the ONLY contact with Ortley Beach INSTEAD OF THE TAXPAYERS THEMSELVES ) as Ortley Beach is NOT a community of condos .. Anyway , as suspected .... this Association DOES NOT represent the Community ... only its membership and refused to provided information provided to it through its special meetings with the TR Officials . There is an e-mail exchange which supports all of this . And , understand , TR Officials have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but TR continue to have " special " meeting with them as if they do . Btw - such discussions may be causing add'l delays . There are state AND federal funds here which DO NOT ALLOW FOR only certain taxpayers and certain " VOTERS " to be kept in the loop , only . Investigations will happen/how this is being handled . Contact US Senators and DC/FEMA people . This is not the normal .. hey/help me and I 'll paint you parking spots in front of your house or hey a Township job is opening-this is BIGGER-this is a FEDERAL DISASTER . So , the withholding info from ALL taxpayers and special meetings with some who happen to be VOTERS , too will surely be addressed in DC <p> Oh ... and Matt ... spread the word about contacting the Feds . Withholding information becuase you are not a member of an assn in disaster situation .. where A LOT of emergency disaster funds FED AND STATE are being used for clean-up , the special meetings themselves , Overtime , etc . May carry criminal charges , too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a membership fee and we 'll share our specially delivered info ; otherwise ... too bad . <p> I fully understand everyones pain in being able to access your properties that you have worked hard for &; pay taxes on .. There is unforseen dangers still out there roads that are unsermined from storm drain pipes or utilities .. Chemicals from pooll &; auto which resort in a hazardous materials issue , , The authorities gave warning to evacuate some people listened by staying , some are injured or in body bags They are trying to prevent more , you take the issue in to your own hands you might be injured or expired , , I have my family My belongings can be replaced I shut everything off before i left my house . Took documents &; clothes &; drained the water based on the info that was received from weather reports &; local authorities <p> Yea for JOHNNY Done it ........ Not everyone else had that opportunity ! I guess Keyport and Union Beach does n't have major destruction , they do . Boats/ cars on bridges and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and oil leaking in the waterways and in the communities . Businesses destroyed roads torn up and poles down . The whole town of Union Beach and parts of Keansburg have to be leveled . Was it the same destruction as Ortley , probably not as big . BUT MAJOR ..... And the difference is , the day after the storm people were helping people . They are climbing thru the rubble cleaning up . The difference is , 2 HARD WORKING BLUE COLLAR TOWNS WORKING TOGETHER . THEY WERE N'T BLOCKED OFF FROM THEIR HOMES OR BROUGHT IN ON A BUS TWO WEEKS LATER . A week fine , 2 weeks is becoming a JOKE . Oh , and chemicals from pools , please . <p> Exactly Barbara , WTF ? Contact the Gov 's office - OC po-po are under his domain , ultimately ; US congressman 's office ( Fed funds being used , too , you know ) and tell them that this these are the answers you are getting-none . Also reach out to the state police and emergency management , maybe they can give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A good response would have been helpful and directional ; like we do n't know but here you may want to try here , here or here . Instead , basically a governmental employee saying ... duh , I do n't know , but thanks for the overtime ! <p> Homes in Ortley Beach are being torn down without notification to homeowners ! <p> Hello Barbara : I posted a comment last night , and it seems to have disappeared . We are hearing from neighbors that their cars have been removed and they can not locate them . They get the same answer as you , " We do n't know what happened . " As a matter of fact , homes deemed beyond repair are being torn down on their respective lots without any notice at all to homeowners . I know of two instances where the homeowner found out about the removal of their home by another source ( not our government ) . They never go a chance to see what is salvageable or to get one last look . I am also aware that they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Again , no considerate communication to the homeowners . Toms River Officials : We all ask you to reconsider your clean up and re-entry plan before this story ends up on 60 Minutes ! <p> I have unsuccessfully tried to get any information at all from the township of Toms River and our elected government about my home and community of Ortley Beach . All other Barrier Island towns have kept their citizen informed and up to date as to progress . My township has decided not to do that .... just an occasional blurb . Now to add insult to injury they have scheduled the council meeting for 3 pm as to put yet another obstacle in our path . They do n't want to see , hear or help us . I am disgusted by their treatment . I have seen photos taken that allow a visual from Rt . 35 S to the ocean ..... streets from 6th to fielder are clear of debris . Today I maneuvered my way through and in between homes from CVS to Vision Beach . Although each and every house has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with State police from Maryland ( extremely polite and sympathetic ) they told me they were not allowed past the cement barriers either , they were only to guard them . I am starting to think they are hiding something . <p> me too Paula , very frustrating . no answers to my inquiries ....... politicians want our votes , and we vote , but in times of need they not there . makes me sick to my stomach . ca n't tell u how many hrs. i spent of the phone this past 2 weeks making phone calls just to hear " i do nt know " / lost all in our t.r. home which my son rents , he and girlfriend here , daughter , boyfriend and granddaughter from ss hts homeless , took them in and poor old mom and pop who stuck it out to the end on bayside terrace and we found them at shelter . and no one in political office can contact me. i need to go back to work tomorrow , took past 8 days off ........ this sucks a big one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be there for us ..... <p> thank you 60 year old resident , have n't heard inquires from mayor or police chief . oc police blotter responded they do nt know , good luck . wth ? someone especially officials should know , but no one know . frustrating .... wnet there today , house is still standing , but how can they tear down houses and remove cars and not notify homeowners ? unbelievable but thank you <p> if u hear any more , let me know campergirl307@cmcast.net i must go back to work tomrorrow. am housing 3 homeless families here , 2 from ss hts. and my son and girlfiriend who rent our t.r. home , we lost everything . unbelievabe , but trying to be strong , hard . <p> thanks taxed out , i just do nt have the energy anymore to make more phone calls . housing 3 homeless families here and what is is. they the politicians make me sick to my stomach ......... sure if i call state police will get the same answwer " we do nt know " ........ sucks . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ families i took in ...... will gov or work give me back that vacation time , all i had left for the year back ? do nt think so ........... yes , i am a public servant and this makes me so disgusted and sick to my stomach . must go back to work tomrrow , now i have no time left for the rest of the year . tried to go in one day and no power , they had 8 days of freezing and no powwer. sat there with hat , gloves , coat on ........ and much to do here , so i was told had to use my time .......... which is fine , but now i just do nt know . <p> I 'm unclear as to why Ortley officials have not posted pictures of every home on their municipal website so that the homeowners can see for themselves the condition of the properties . Lavallette did post many of its properties and I think that is an enormous public service . I agree that if the property is accessible via roads , then the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took the biggest hit , their roads are extremely compromised ( or non-existent in some instances ) , and I have a sense that some of the people posting here are wishful thinkers for what they believe they will find . The last thing needed there are hundreds of cars and contractors in an extraordinarily hazardous environment . <p> Thank you Toms River Police for your organization and help to retireve articles from my home . I know you have been working long shifts and many days straight but your help is immeasureable . Thank you . Thank you . <p> NYC starts a RAPID REPAIRS PROGRAM today . If they already applied to FEMA and have a number . They can start repairs with contractors without putting money out . The news was showing residents climbing through the rubble of their TOTALLY DEVASTATED Staten Island

@@5034241 <h> Pregnancy Testing <p> Did you miss your period and think you might be pregnant ? Here 's your guide to both over-the-counter and in-office pregnancy tests , their accuracy , exactly how to use them , and what their results mean . <h> More in Pregnancy Testing <p> ... to use the most popular pregnancy tests on the market . What it is : A new digital test . It may be more .... A 2005 University of New Mexico study found that of seven popular pregnancy tests , First Response ... tests were best in detecting early pregnancy . When it says you can test : 4 days before your expected ... <p> Think you may be pregnant ? Think you 're experiencing some possible symptoms or signs of pregnancy ? Take this quiz to see if what you 're feeling could indicate pregnancy and find out if you could be pregnant ! <p> Getting pregnant should be simple , right ? So why does conception practically require a Blackberry to schedule ? Simplify the situation with our free ovulation calendar , which tells you when you 're most likely to get pregnant . <p> Your baby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the nine-month process of pregnancy she becomes an amazing baby with facial features , a beating heart and kicking legs . Find out what 's happening with baby 's development week by week . <p> We 've partnered with the American Institute of Ultrasound Medicine ( AIUM ) , Johns Hopkins , and the March of Dimes to create this unique peak into Baby 's development inside the womb . These images reveal all the intricate details of your baby 's growth -- from a collection of cells to a full-term newborn . While most women may only receive one or two ultrasounds during pregnancy , which is normal , this slideshow of the 1st trimester of pregnancy gives you a look at each week of development . <p> What are the hottest new baby names so far this year ? Based on an analysis of over 23 million page views at Nameberry , we 've gathered a surprising list of hot names , driven by unexpected celebrities ,

@@5034341 <p> Suppose Draco Malfoy introduced himself before he started acting like an ass . What if he had asked Harry 's name before insulting Hagrid ? A friendly handshake in Madam Malkin 's leads to an alternate but realistic universe which is eerily like the canon , <p> Suppose Draco Malfoy introduced himself before he started acting like an ass . What if he had asked Harry 's name before insulting Hagrid ? A friendly handshake in Madam Malkin 's leads to an alternate but realistic universe which is eerily like the canon , featuring a cast of first year Slytherins as you 've never seen them : normal children . Join Harry Potter and his new friends as they discover their magical talents and help him to explore the world that has been kept from him these past ten years . <p> STOP AND READ THE AUTHOR 'S NOTE ! <p> This story was begun in 2001 , post-GOF . As such , it contains several anachronisms . Blaise Zabini is written as a blonde girl . Nott 's first name is Tim . There is a new character named Jenna Moon . Please do n't lose your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the canon is complete , I have revised the story to take into account later details , including some things from Pottermore ( do n't worry , nothing spoilery ! ) . Names were changed to protect the innocent : Tim to Theo , Jenna Moon to Daphne Greengrass , and Blaise Zabini to Tracy Davis . The black kid who does n't get any screentime in canon until HBP is worked in by a particular fit of genius . It 's as close as I can make it to canon without rewriting the entire series , and I 'm not going to go that far . I am leaving this original version of the story posted for posterity . <p> If you are new to this story , please read the Revision ! You can find the link in my profile . <p> Continued from Chapter Five of Harry Potter and the Philosopher 's Stone <p> Chapter One - Diagon Alley <p> One wild cart ride later , they stood blinking in the sunlight outside Gringotts . Harry did n't know where to run first now that he had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to know how many Galleons there were to a pound to know that he was holding more money than he 'd had in his whole life - more money than even Dudley had ever had . <p> " Might as well get yer uniform , " said Hagrid , nodding toward Madam Malkin 's Robes For All Occasions . " Listen , Harry , would yeh mind if I slipped off fer a pick-me-up in the Leaky Cauldron ? I hate them Gringotts carts . " He did still look a bit sick , so Harry entered Madam Malkin 's shop alone , feeling nervous . <p> Madam Malkin was a squat , smiling witch dressed all in mauve . <p> " Hogwarts , dear ? " she said , when Harry started to speak . " Got the lot here . There 's another young man being fitted up just now , in fact . " <p> In the back of the shop , a boy with a pale , pointed face was standing on a footstool while a second witch pinned up his long black robes . Madam @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slipped a long robe over his head , and began to pin it up to the right length . <p> " Hello , " said the boy , " Hogwarts , too ? " <p> " Yes , " said Harry . <p> " My father 's next door buying my books , and mother 's up the street looking at wands , " said the boy . He had a bored , drawling voice . " Then I 'm going to drag them off to look at racing brooms . I think I 'll bully father into getting me one , and I 'll smuggle it in somehow . Have you got your own broom ? " <p> The boy 's arrogant manner reminded Harry a bit of Dudley . <p> " No , " said Harry . <p> " Play Quidditch at all ? " <p> " No , " Harry said again , wondering what on earth Quidditch could be . <p> " I do . Father says it 's a crime if I 'm not picked to play for my house , and I must say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , though . I 've got a Comet Two-Sixty right now , top of the line , but it 's not a professional broom by any means . I do n't see why first years ca n't have them . It 's just not fair . " <p> Harry nodded , not really having his own opinion on the matter . <p> " Know what house you 'll be in yet ? " <p> " No , " said Harry , feeling more stupid by the minute . <p> " Well , no one really knows until they get there , do they ? But I know I 'll be in Slytherin ; all our family have been . Speaking of family , what 's your surname ? " <p> The exclamation came as Madam Malkin missed a stroke and stabbed him with the needle . <p> " Oh ! Oh , I 'm so sorry dear . " She turned to her assistant . " Imagine that , Alice , Harry Potter himself coming in to my shop for his robes . " She tittered again and continued her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as he sized Harry up . " From all the stories they tell about you , I thought you 'd be taller , " he finally said . It was true , Harry was only a fraction taller than him . <p> " I 'm not short ! " Harry protested . <p> The boy smirked at him . " Never said you were . Father told me that you were my age , but I had no idea we 'd meet before getting to school . I 've been looking forward to meeting you . I 'm Malfoy , Draco Malfoy . " <p> He held out his hand . Harry shook it . " Nice to meet you , " he said politely . <p> " I say , look at that man ! " said Draco suddenly , nodding towards the front window . Hagrid was standing there , grinning at Harry and pointing at two large ice cream cones to show he could n't come in . " <p> " That 's Hagrid , " said Harry , pleased to be able to talk about something @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oh , " said Draco , " I 've heard about him . He 's a servant of some kind , is n't he ? " <p> " He 's the gamekeeper , " said Harry , feeling a bit put out . Hagrid had rescued him from the Dursleys . <p> " Yes , exactly . The Headmaster at Hogwarts took him on after he got expelled . Now he lives in a hut on the school grounds and every now and then he gets drunk , tries to do magic , and ends up setting fire to his bed . " <p> " I think he 's brilliant , " said Harry coldly . <p> Draco peered into his face . " You 're Harry Potter , and he 's a nobody . Why are you defending him ? " he asked curiously . <p> " He told me I was a wizard and took me away from the Muggles I was living with . " <p> " The Muggles you were living with ? You mean you never knew about all this ? " <p> " No @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't play Quidditch or know what house you 'll be in , " said Draco with sudden epiphany . " You do n't know anything about the wizarding world . " <p> Too ashamed to voice it , Harry only shook his head . <p> " I 'm sorry , Harry , " Draco said softly . " I think that 's a right crime , depriving a true-born wizard of his heritage . " <p> " Thank you , " said Harry . He did n't really know what else to say . <p> " Listen , what I said about that Hagrid fellow , " Draco began , " I was only telling you the truth . I hope you 're not going to hate me for telling you the truth . " <p> Shame washed over Harry . Here this boy was trying to be friendly , and Harry was being right beastly about it all . " No , I do n't hate you . But I think you should give Hagrid a chance . He 's been very nice to me . " <p> In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be Harry 's friend . Everyone had always been too afraid of Dudley . But there was no Dudley in the wizarding world . " I 'd like that , " he said sincerely . <p> " Brilliant ! " Draco said enthusiastically . " After we have our robes all finished , we can go around and do everything else . You 've got to look at the new Nimbus Two Thousand . I 'm going to see if I can convince Father to get me one as a late birthday present . " <p> " I think I 'm supposed to stay with Hagrid , " Harry said reluctantly . He really wanted to spend time with his new friend . <p> Draco waved such concerns away . " Father is on the board of school governors . I 'm sure everything will be alright . " <p> Harry marvelled at how nothing seemed to bother Draco . He found himself being caught up in the blond boy 's enthusiasm . <p> Madam Malkin and her assistant , Alice , had just finished up with the last of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . He had the same pale skin and pointed face as Draco , even the same cold , grey eyes . His robes were subtle , yet superbly made . He wore a fur hat on his head and carried a snake-headed silver cane in his left hand . <p> " Father ! " Draco said with spirit . " I want you to meet Harry Potter ! " <p> Draco 's father peered at him intently , and Harry felt the man 's eyes linger on the scar on his forehead . It may have been his imagination , but Mr. Malfoy 's hand tightened on the handle of his cane . <p> " I always imagined you would be taller , " he said in a pleasant voice , echoing his son 's comment . He reached out his hand . " Lucius Malfoy , Mister Potter . How do you do ? " <p> Harry shook hands . " How do you do , sir . " <p> " Father , can Harry come around to the shops with us ? I 've got a lot to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smiled , though it did not reach his eyes . " I do n't see why that would be a problem . " <p> " I 'm here with Hagrid , Mister Malfoy . He 's sort of in charge of me right now . " <p> " Hagrid ? " Mr. Malfoy asked incredulously . " Hagrid is n't qualified to be in charge of flobberworms . If he 's in charge of you , where is he ? " <p> " He was here just a minute ago . He had ice cream cones , but they were melting . Maybe he went to get cleaned up ? " <p> " Well , I do think I saw him stepping into the Leaky Cauldron a few minutes ago . I would wager he 'll be awhile rejoining us . Impossible man . He ca n't go a day without getting roaring drunk . No self-control . " <p> Harry did n't want to challenge the word of such an important man , so he said nothing . He chewed his lip , wishing he could say something in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . <p> Mr. Malfoy smiled again , indulgent of his son 's eagerness . " I 'll take care of it , Harry . May I call you Harry ? " <p> He nodded . <p> " You boys run off and look at brooms . I 'll pick up another set of books and meet you both at Ollivanders in thirty minutes . Not one second later , understand Draco ? " <p> " Yes , Father , " Draco said , already looking towards the shop . <p> " Thank you , sir , " said Harry as he followed his new friend towards the broom shop . " Your dad 's really nice , " he said to Draco . <p> " He 's strict about the rules , but there 's not that many of them . Otherwise he 's very easy-going . Just do n't make an enemy out of him . He 's got a brutal sarcastic streak . " <p> They looked at the Nimbus 2000 for quite awhile , and Draco explained to him a lot about Hogwarts . <p> " There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who wants to succeed is in Slytherin . It 's the house for the ambitious , the clever , and the sneaky . If you 're really smart then you belong in Ravenclaw . My brother Elan says they 're a bunch of bookworms . If you like to work hard then you 'll be in Hufflepuff , so they say , but Elan says they 're a bunch of duffers . They have to work hard because they do n't really fit anywhere else . Then if you 've got more courage than common sense , you 're in Gryffindor . They do n't understand that sometimes discretion is the better part of valour . " <p> " What 's that mean ? " <p> " Sometimes you should run away because otherwise you might get hurt . " Draco was grinning . <p> Harry pondered that philosophy and found that it made a lot of sense . Certainly running away from Dudley was the best policy . " So Slytherin is the best house ? " <p> " Well one of the key traits is ambition , see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of those is the desire for power . That means that more Dark wizards and witches have come from Slytherin House than any other , and it 's given us a bad reputation . When a Dark wizard comes from any other house it 's just brushed off as a one-time thing , but with Slytherin it 's treated as the rule . " <p> " That does n't seem very fair , " Harry commented . " To judge a whole house by the example of a few people ? " <p> Draco turned to Harry and looked at him for a few seconds . Finally , he said , " You understand . No , it 's not fair . I think it all comes from them being jealous . " <p> As Draco talked about why the other houses were jealous of Slytherin , they 'd won the House and Quidditch Cups every year for the last six years , Harry was feeling very happy . It was only his first day in an exciting new world , and he 'd already made a friend his own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people in the Leaky Cauldron had and seemed to genuinely like him . It was a new experience for Harry and he hoped it would last . <p> Quidditch also sounded very interesting and Harry bought a copy of a book called Quidditch Through The Ages so he could read all about it . Draco was assuring him that riding a broom was the best sensation in the world as they walked out , heading towards the wand maker 's shop . <p> " I 've missed out on so much , " Harry said wistfully . <p> " What was it like ? " Draco asked curiously . " Living with Muggles , I mean ? " <p> " I hate it , " Harry replied instantly . " I hate them . I got blamed for everything . Uncle Vernon seemed to think I was some sort of devil . Aunt Petunia is a horrible , shrewish woman . Dudley is just a fat monster . He and his friends used to enjoy bashing me . I think he got it from Uncle Vernon . " <p> " @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's words were uncertain , as though he did n't know how to ask his questions . Harry wondered if wizards ever hit their children . <p> " Sometimes . When something happened that they could n't explain , I 'd always get in trouble . He 'd smack me and I 'd get locked in the cupboard under the stairs . If I was absolutely silent , sometimes I 'd get dinner . " Harry 's voice was dead , with no emotion whatsoever . He might as well have been reading from the encyclopaedia . He 'd never told anyone how the Dursleys had treated him , but Draco was his friend , and Harry knew friends talked to each other . <p> Harry had no answer , but fortunately he did n't have to give one , for they had arrived at Ollivanders . Peeling gold letters over the door read Ollivanders : Makers of Fine Wands since 382 B.C. A single wand lay on a faded purple cushion in the front window . The shop was narrow and shabby . <p> A tinkling bell rang somewhere @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . It was a tiny place , filled with shelves . Thousands of narrow boxes filled those shelves , reaching all the way up to the ceiling . For some reason , the back of Harry 's neck prickled . The very dust in here seemed to tingle with some secret magic . <p> " Draco , there you are ! " <p> A blonde woman , tall and slim , wearing very nice dark blue robes knelt down and hugged Draco . She was smiling broadly , and Harry could see that she had very pretty teeth . <p> " Mum ! " Draco cried , clearly scandalized about being hugged in front of his new friend . <p> " Oh do n't be silly , Draco . I 'm your mother , I 'm sure he understands . " <p> " Umm , Mum ? This is Harry Potter . " <p> Draco 's mother turned a most unflattering shade of red . " Oh by the stars , " she muttered . " I 've fumbled it now . " <p> Then she composed herself and smiled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offered Harry her hand . " Narcissa Malfoy . It 's a pleasure , Harry . " <p> An old man was standing behind the counter , his wide , pale eyes shining like moons through the gloom of the shop . <p> " You have your mother 's eyes , " he said . " It seems only yesterday that she was in here herself , buying her first wand . Ten and a quarter inches long , swishy , made of willow . Nice wand for charm work . " <p> Mr. Ollivander stepped around the counter . Harry had n't yet seen him blink those creepy silver eyes . <p> " Your father , on the other hand , favoured a mahogany wand . Eleven inches . Pliable . A little more power and excellent for transfiguration . Well , I say your father favoured it . It 's really the wand that chooses the wizard , of course . " <p> The wand maker had come so close that he and Harry were almost nose to nose . Harry could see himself reflected in those misty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sold the wand that did it , " he said softly . " Thirteen-and-a-half inches . Yew . Powerful wand , very powerful , and in the wrong hands ... well , if I 'd known what that wand was going out into the world to do ... " <p> He shook his head , turning to Draco . " And young Master Malfoy . A pleasure to make your acquaintance . Your mother has told me a great deal about you . " <p> " I 'm sure she has , " Draco said wryly . <p> " Well then , let 's get you two lads fitted . Mister Malfoy , which is your wand arm ? " <p> " Left . " <p> " Mister Potter ? " <p> " I 'm right-handed , sir . " <p> Mr. Ollivander snapped his fingers and two measuring tapes hurried over and began taking all sorts of measurements on the two boys . They measured from shoulder to finger , then wrist to elbow , shoulder to floor , knee to armpit , and round the head . <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ magical substance . We customarily use unicorn hairs , phoenix feathers , and the heartstrings of dragons . No two Ollivander wands are quite the same . And of course , you will never get such good results with another wizard 's wand . " <p> As he talked , Mr. Ollivander was flitting around the shelves , taking down boxes . <p> " That will do , " he said , and the two tapes crumpled to the floor . " Right then , Mister Potter . Try this one . Beechwood and dragon heartstring . Nine inches . Nice and flexible . Just take it and give it a wave . " <p> Harry took the wand and , feeling foolish , waved it around a bit , but Mr. Ollivander snatched it out of his hand almost at once . <p> " Maple and phoenix feather . Seven inches . Quite whippy . Try- " <p> Harry tried , but he had hardly raised the wand when it , too , was snatched back . <p> " Mister Malfoy , give this one a wave . " @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the counter exploded . Water spilled everywhere . Mr. Ollivander shook his head . " No , apparently not . " He handed over another . " Ebony and unicorn hair , eight and a half inches , springy . Go on , go on , try it . " <p> Harry tried . And tried . He had no idea what Mr. Ollivander was waiting for . The pile of tried wands was mounting higher and higher on the counter , but the more wands Mr. Ollivander pulled from the shelves , the happier he seemed to become . <p> Draco took the wand and raised it above his head . He swished it down and a stream of green and silver sparks filled the air around him . <p> " Oh ! How pretty ! " said Mrs. Malfoy . " Slytherin colours , you see that Mister Ollivander ? " <p> Mr. Ollivander was nodding to himself as he put the wand away and wrapped it in brown paper , very satisfied . " Yes , a rather unusual wand . Silver lime . I know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half inches , very bendy . A core of dragon heartstring . Rather appropriate , I do believe Master Malfoy also has some dragon heartstring in his wand . " <p> " Now , Mister Potter . Let 's see if we ca n't find yours . " <p> They went through another half dozen boxes before Mr. Ollivander pulled a box out from near the back . <p> Harry took the wand . He felt a sudden warmth in his fingers . He raised the wand above his head , brought it swishing down through the dusty air , and a stream of gold and silver sparks shot from the end like a firework , throwing dancing spots of light onto the walls . Draco whooped and clapped for his friend while Mr. Ollivander cried , " Oh bravo ! Yes , indeed , oh , very good . Well , well , well ... how curious ... how very curious ... " <p> He put Harry 's wand back in its box and began wrapping it up , still muttering , " Curious ... curious ... " <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I remember every wand I 've ever sold , Mister Potter . Every single wand . It so happens that the phoenix whose tail feather is in your wand , gave another feather - just one other . It is very curious indeed that you should be destined for this wand when its brother . . . why , its brother gave you that scar . " <p> Harry swallowed hard . <p> " Yes , thirteen-and-a-half inches . Yew . Curious indeed how these things happen . The wand chooses the wizard , remember . I think we must expect great things from you , Mister Potter . After all , He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named did great things . Terrible , yes , but great . " <p> " Hagrid , there is no call for acting like this , " Mrs. Malfoy said , appearing very put out . Her nose had risen slightly into the air , and was wrinkled slightly , as though she found something distasteful . <p> " It 's good to see that you have n't lost all of your manners , Hagrid . There 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's with me . I 'm in charge of him . " Hagrid was half-growling his words . <p> " The boy is perfectly alright with me , " Mr. Malfoy said urbanely . <p> " Professor Dumbledore put him in my hands ! " <p> Mr. Malfoy clucked his tongue . " Hagrid , you do recall that I am on the board of governors ? I would never let anything happen to Harry Potter , or any other student . I assure you , I have everything well in hand . " <p> " One governor does not overrule the Headmaster , " Hagrid practically snarled . <p> Harry dug out his money and paid for his wand . Draco 's mother slid seven gold coins across the counter as well . <p> They all piled out into the street , Mrs. Malfoy standing next to her husband , Draco standing near Harry . Hagrid pulled Harry closer to him , away from his friend . Harry could smell spilled alcohol . <p> " We still got lots ter buy an ' can best do it w'out interference @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face was a little red , Harry could see in the daylight . <p> Mr. Malfoy 's eyes narrowed dangerously . " Do n't cross me , Hagrid . You had better believe that I will be taking this issue up with the board . You 'll have to be lucky in the extreme to keep your job . " <p> He handed Harry a bag filled with books . " There you are , Harry . " <p> " Thank you , sir . " Harry reached into his pocket for some money . <p> " No , no , consider them a birthday present . " <p> Harry swallowed . Charity , from a man he 'd barely met . Did he look that ragged ? " Sir , I ca n't . I just would n't feel right about it . Please take the money . " <p> Mr. Malfoy studied Harry 's face for a moment . " Very well , Harry , if that 's how you feel . It came to five Galleons and some small change . Just give me the Galleons . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of your Defence Against the Dark Arts text , which I will insist on gifting you with . " <p> Harry handed over the coins . " Thank you again , Mister Malfoy . It was nice to meet you . " <p> " The pleasure was all mine , Harry , " he said , shaking hands . " Do take care . I hope to see you again . " <p> Mrs. Malfoy knelt down and kissed him on both cheeks . " Goodbye , dear . Study hard . You 're going to be a great wizard . " <p> Harry felt himself blushing to his roots . " Ma'am , " was all he could say . <p> " Bye Harry ! " said Draco , shaking his hand enthusiastically . " I 'll save you a seat on the train ! " <p> " Thanks , Draco . I 'll see you then . " <p> Hagrid had said nothing during this exchange , but his face was furious . He kept his eye on the Malfoy family as he stepped away , keeping himself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pace , forcing Harry to practically run to keep up . People were clearing out of his path as he marched directly for the Apothecary . <p> " I do n't know what yeh was thinkin ' , Harry , goin ' off like that . And with Lucius Malfoy , of all people ! " <p> Harry felt anger rising up from inside him . " What 's so wrong with him ? He seemed like a perfectly nice man . He went and bought my books for me so that Draco and I could get to know each other . I made a friend today , Hagrid , and I 've never had a friend before . " <p> " Malfoys are trouble . Old purebloods and snobby as the devil about it . Yer better off staying away from ' em . " <p> " They were being perfectly civil to me , " Harry ground out between clenched teeth . " Then you came along and ruined everything . You did n't even give them a chance . You just barged in and started making assumptions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just how angry Harry was with him . He looked down at the tiny boy and could see his lifebeat pulsing in the scar on his forehead . <p> " Maybe yeh 'll just have to see for yourself . C'm on , we still got some things ter buy . " <p> Hagrid kept a close eye on Harry as he asked the clerk for a supply of basic potion ingredients . Harry did n't particularly want to be around the big man in his current mood , so he busied himself investigating the shop . <p> The smell was awful , a mixture of bad eggs and rotted cabbages . Barrels of slimy stuff stood on the floor ; jars of herbs , dried roots , and bright powders lined the walls ; bundles of feathers , strings of fangs , and snarled claws hung from the ceiling . He saw silver unicorn horns at twenty-one Galleons each and minuscule , glittery-black beetle eyes ( five Knuts a scoop ) . <p> From there they picked up Harry 's cauldron , a set of scales , and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ buy , they returned to the brick wall that led out of Diagon Alley . The large man reached into his shaggy overcoat and pulled out an envelope . He handed it to Harry . <p> " That ' ere 's yer ticket fer the Hogwarts Express . It leaves at ' leven o'clock from King 's Cross station . All the information is on the ticket . Now let 's get yeh a train back home . " <p> Harry did n't speak at all as they walked back through the empty pub , down the road , on the Underground , up an escalator , and into London Bridge station . He only realized where they were when Hagrid tapped him on the shoulder . <p> " Yer train leaves in ten minutes . Best yeh be on it . " <p> Hagrid looked like he wanted to say something else , but did not . Harry boarded the

@@5034441 Mix : <h> Color : <h> Aspect Ratio : <h> Did You Know ? <h> Trivia <p> The 1958 Christmas special has become a much-loved Christmas eve tradition on Swedish TV and regularly scores viewer numbers among the highest of the year . It was first broadcast in Sweden in 1960 and has seen some reshuffling to accommodate scenes from Disney movies , but since 1983 the bulk of the programme has remained fixed . When public-service TV ( SVT ) attempted to remove it from the schedule because of the costly license to be paid Disney , the popular outcry forced them to relent . Part of the reason the tradition became so strong was that for many years , American-style

@@5034541 <h> share this story <p> In June , the Washington Post reported on an interview with Olympic hurdler , Lolo Jones , who revealed that at age 29 she remains a virgin . Jones remarked : <p> " It 's just a gift I want to give my husband . But please understand this journey has been hard . There 's virgins out there and I want to let them know that it 's the hardest thing I 've ever done in my life . Harder than training for the Olympics . Harder than graduating from college has been to stay a virgin before marriage . I 've been tempted , I 've had plenty of opportunities . " <p> As Jones spoke , the interviewer had a hard time restraining laughter and at points simply did n't . The interview went viral and comments ranged from mockery to admiration , depending on the perspective . <p> Lolo Jones is a marvelous Olympic hurdler who learned her trade the hard way -- by overcoming difficult hurdles in her life . She is determined to carve out for herself a very different future , and her Christianity is fueling her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that sexual purity is regarded as archaic , nave and joke fodder for late night television . Jones and others , such as NFL quarterback Tim Tebow , are to be commended for their principled stances . We all know that Christians have their work cut out for them to counteract prevailing American sexual mores that reduce male/female relationships to sex and little else . <p> But there is so much more to say . Christianity is not confined simply to premarital virginity . On the one hand , any single Christian who commits to sexual purity in obedience to Christ should be esteemed . On the other hand , the so-called " virginity movement , " helpful as it may be , is not nor should it be equated with Christianity . To do so sells the Gospel short and leads to all sorts of false notions of where young women find their true worth and what young Christian men should prize in them . Here 's what I mean . <p> A message of purity and abstinence , as important as this is for young women ( young @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ young American girls , including those in church pews . It is utterly devastating to the one-in-four girls who is sexually abused before she reaches her 18th birthday . We live in a world where by the age of 18 an estimated 70 percent of girls have had sex at least once and not always by choice , where globally countless women and girls are in the grips of sex traffickers , where an appalling 48 women are raped every hour in the Congo , where within our own borders sexual freedom has opened the door for young women to be as sexually promiscuous as men , and where some girls with the very best of intentions succumb to temptation . I grieve all of this , but do not for a second imagine that any of this means a woman has less to offer a husband or that in any sense it diminishes her worth . <p> The Gospel message for women and girls is bigger than moral purity . It is a life-changing message that secures every young woman 's place in God 's Story and leaves no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ culture and the other voices that beckon to her , this message secures her identity as a woman as well as her purpose and meaning for the road ahead , no matter what she sees when she looks in the rearview mirror . <p> Every girl , virgin or not , bears God 's image in her soul . God created his daughters and his sons to be his image bearers . His vision from creation was for his daughters to be his representatives in this world -- to speak and act on his behalf . This gives significance to every aspect of a girl 's life and means , of course , that God wants every one of his daughters to know him in deep ways , to love what he loves , and to invest her life to advance his kingdom wherever she may find herself . <p> Every girl , virgin or not , is a warrior for God 's good purposes on earth . When God said , " It is not good for the man to be alone . I will make a helper ezer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ establishing the fact that his sons and daughters need each other . The Hebrew word ezer ( rhymes with razor ) is a military term used 16 out of 21 times in the Old Testament for God as the Help of his people . As ezer-warriors , God 's daughters join their brothers in the fierce battle against the Enemy . The mission of God in the world requires , by God 's own statement , the joint efforts of his sons and daughters . They are to be a Blessed Alliance in taking back territory the Enemy has seized -- both within marriage and also as members of the Body of Christ . <p> This vision raises the bar for every young woman by calling her to use her mind , as well as her heart , soul and strength , in pursuit of a deeper relationship with God and of the wisdom and courage to represent him . With Jesus as her North Star , she sees what needs to be done and does it . When she sees suffering and injustice in God 's world ( as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as God 's image bearer and takes responsibility to right the wrongs and to share the good news of Jesus . <p> I 'm thrilled that Christians like Lolo Jones are in the Olympics . But what she has to offer a husband is more precious than her virginity or a gold medal . As a bearer of God 's image and as an ezer-warrior for God , she will be a blessed ally to a husband as together they engage the challenges of life in a fallen world . <p> Christine J. Gardner convincingly argues that the abstinence movement works against the most profound Christian values of selflessness and sacrifice and instead adopts rock concert style techniques of pop culture as a tool to get people to turn against that pop culture . <p> I embraced the image of myself as the radical abstinence practitioner until I became engaged at the age of 24 . Up to this point , my pride had deluded me into thinking that I had a balanced , Godly view of sexuality . <p> We all have impressions of what to expect from " @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ examples illustrate , it is wise not to have high expectations of groups and instead rely upon dedicated and heroic individuals . <p> South Africa 's Cameron Van Der Burgh won the gold medal in the 100M breaststroke in world record time . But his victory came under scrutiny after the Australian team accused him of making illegal " dolphin kicks . " <p> The Summer Olympics are beginning next month and London 2012 hype is in full swing . It was just a matter of time before some guy took the time to write an absurdly retro article telling straight dudes how female athletes are like , totally hot . <p> God wants us to remain virgins until we are married . That IS important to Him . But , it is not instant condemnation ... <p> Now to live a fornicating life is NOT what God want 's either . He wants us fitting those urges and to do the right thing , which is to marry , in order to have a safe and healthy sex life . <p> This is why more single people get STDs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ married people . It is the single people with the highest rate of murder in the womb and having to run out and by contraceptives or have to worry about how their world is going to be so devastated when if they have a child and are not married . <p> God want 's us to have sex with that ONE person that we are married to . Not someone that we really love . Because if we really love them and they really love us , we would what and do it the right way . <p> How do I know this ? All of the women I love wound up leaving me , even though we had sex . <h> Loading comments ... <p> Though you recite the word well , and utilize the Hebrew , I fear some of your understanding of what Lolo Jones has said is greatly misunderstood , or at the very least misplaced . We are not talking RAPE here ! We are talking about offering to the one person that you love yourself . This creates what is known as a soul @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raped , make a mistakes etc . That is far different from what she is trying to convey to this next generation of young women coming up through the ranks . The point is to stay chaste for a healthier relationship in accordance with the scriptural principles . Society on a whole does n't emphasize chastity , and from your article it sounds like you think that is acceptable . As director of a pregnancy crisis center in the 80 's I saw too many shattered lives from unwanted pregnancies , none were from rape . I am also well versed in the pain of rape , so I get it maybe better than most . Lolo is sending a message to girls to remain chaste . That is very difficult and yet brings its rewards . Christianity is not built on one precept , but instead , precept upon precept . Do n't take what she is saying out of context to make a point . That is neither accurate or fair to the message that this young woman is sending . <p> MadameTiffany : Though you recite the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the author is saying is that in this sentence : " We are talking about offering to the one person that you love yourself . " ... the " yourself " that you mention encompasses so much more than your virginity . It encompasses your sexuality ( which continues to exist after one 's virginity is gone ) , your mind , your personality , your emotional makeup , your maturity , the breadth and depth of your life experiences , your appearance and what your choose to do with it , your weaknesses and illnesses , your relationships and family and friends ... so few people would look at a man and evalute him and " what he brings to the relationship " based on whether he was a virgin . But much of the religious world does seem to do this , especially where women are concerned . And it 's such a narrow and impartial picture of what makes a person " valuable " to their love ones - significant other included - that it *is* laughable when it 's treated with such seriousness . When addressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wait to have with someone with whom they are serious about building a long-term sexual relationship - then it 's not laughable at all , and should be a choice that everyone feels free to make without harassment or ridicule . <h> Loading comments ... <p> I like this article and it is true , not having sex before marriage is not the Full GOSPEL , but it is part of it . And this is not just for Girls and Women , but Boys and Men also . It is not good for a Man to touch a Woman , but to avoid fornication , let every man have his own Wife and let every Woman have her own Husband . ( I Corinthians 7:1-2 ) Those who have fallen short , Repent , Turn and Thank GOD for Forgiveness : ) and To GOD Be The GLORY . <p> God cares as much about your virginity as he does about how much you lie . The thrust of this article is that Christians behave like their virginity is the most important thing to God when it 's only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others . I 've been in too many churches where virginity seems more to be more important than how we treat our enemies and neighbors . How about this ? You can care about virginity as much as you want , as long as you care about everything else just as much . So many Christians think that sexual purity is the biggest issue facing young Christians , when it 's really the spiritual apathy that comes as a result of the church making it seem that the spiritual health of a Christian is measured by how much they think about and do sexual acts . <p> " I 'm sure glad God gave us the Holy Spirit so I could stay a virgin till I 'm married . " Sometimes , I get the impression that that 's what a Christian who is on fire for God is supposed to sound like . <p> Carolyn Custis James did say in this article that CHRISTianity is not confined simply to premarital virginity . She also said that The GOSPEL message is bigger than moral purity , so I did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their virginity is the most important part of being a CHRISTian . Even her title indicates that . ' T is true GOD did not give us The Full GOSPEL for us to pick out what we want and just focus on that , for HE wants us fully equipped unto all good works according to HIS WORD . ( II Timothy 3:16-17 ) <p> LastDays1 : Carolyn Custis James did say in this article that CHRISTianity <h> Loading comments ... <h> Loading comments ... <p> You say some important things but the message is confusing . We always have the opportunity to be redeemed but part of you message seems to be that it does n't really matter . You also make a huge leap in judgement that people that are committed to God 's plan for sexual intimacy and having children in a sacred marriage do not understand or have the depth of understanding the full message . <p> The message is n't confusing and she does n't make that leap . The thing that bothers you is that she does n't think people 's virginity is as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is that she does n't want to measure how strong a person 's faith is by how much they value their virginity . Yeah , I 'm pretty sure when he commented on how strong that gentile 's faith was in Jesus ' ability to heal , Jesus was factoring in how that gentile stayed a virgin until he was married . <p> gdestroyer8 : The message is n't confusing and she does n't make that leap . <h> Loading comments ... <p> It 's sad how many people , even as adults , still try to use the peer pressure tactic to make others feel bad about their decision to stay pure until marriage . Be carefully what you teach your kids because you can be ruining their lives just because of your selfish thoughts . <h> Loading comments ... <p> I have never thought of God as an entity setting on a throne making rules like " do n't drink because it offends Me " . I think the ' Rules " are there to prevent us from suffering and/or harming ourselves and others . Premarital or extramarital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anger , depression , etc . Therefore , it is best not to have sex until married and then only with your spouse . Thou shall have no other Gods but me . Very hard to worship the accumulation of money or power and still follow Christian values and not hurt someone else . Thou shall not envy what others have . Desiring what someone else has , you develop hero worship and become single purpose in obtaining what the other person has in anyway you can obtain it . You shall not lie . It always catchs up to you and you and/or your family and descendents suffer . There is a reason for God 's Rules and we need to see the deeper meaning , remembering He always forgives our failures if we sincerely ask . <p> I agree . Having grown up surrounded by some pretty fundamentalist conservative Christian church populations , I have to point out , though , that marital sex can ( and does , not infrequently ) also lead to disease , divorce , anger , depression , etc . <p> I agree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's spouse is also following the same path , otherwise you 're still going to have to deal with the emotional impact of knowing they 've been with others - is likely the easiest emotional path , long term . That said , I watched friends who did n't feel they needed to work on any other aspect of themselves because they felt guaranteed a good marriage simply because they 'd " waited . " I 've seen people convince themselves that , because they 'd found another virgin , they were perfect together . They 'd marry , despite red flags around money , gambling , anger issues , etc. , and 7 years later be in a miserable , unhappy , combative marriage . <p> Virginity is not a guarantee of ANYTHING . It 's a not a guarantee that your future will be bright , your marriage will be good , your future spouse wo n't have STDs or hit you or have trouble holding down a job or be honest or faithful , that your inlaws wo n't be emotionally abusive . Virginity is a choice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this moment in your life and how you feel and where your energy and time and investment goes . It 's a choice to not worry about getting pregnant or catching an STD *today* . And that 's fantastic . <p> JoelyBow : I agree . Having grown up surrounded by some pretty fundamentalist <p> Are n't Christians supposed to be transformed and renewed daily ? You phrase it as if the transformation and renewal you receive from repenting from having sex is the most important thing you can experience as a follower of Jesus . Neither myself nor the author is arguing that it is n't valuable or important . I 'm saying that it 's not the most important or critical aspect of your life as a Christ follower . For someone who has struggled with that and overcome it , it can be very important , but if you build your faith around one milestone rather than the actual gospel of Christ , then you 're building it wrong . <h> Loading comments ... <h> Loading comments ... <p> " It is utterly devastating to the one-in-four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ birthday . " <p> Surely you must have an actual peer reviewed study of every woman being questioned to verify this statement ? How often will the false statistic be reguritated ? According to this number , one in four girls is sexually abused by before 18 . According to another study one in four women in college get sexually abused . Yet according to studies conducted by the same people , in the overall population one in five women will get sexually abused over the course their entire life . Surely anyone can see the fraud of any of these claims . --------------- " His vision from creation was for his daughters to be his representatives in this world " <p> As if women are representative of God by merely existing as women ? Are you joking ? -------------- When God said , " It is not good for the man to be alone . I will make a helper ezer for him " ( Genesis 2:18 ) , he was establishing the fact that his sons and daughters need each other . " <p> How did you come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feminism 101 ? <p> I hope one day you experience something that helps you appreciate the value of women to God , mankind , and the church . I know reading that makes you hate me more . I know that hate . Hopefully something can transform it into love and understanding . I do n't want you to be like me . I 'm nothing to aspire to , but I hope you can be more Christlike . We need more Christlike people , and transforming you would produce someone with a really good story to tell . <h> Loading comments ... <p> I know a lot of men respond to that statistic with such skepticism , and my initial reaction to it - as a woman - was similar , but then I sat down and started thinking . I do n't think of myself as one of the statistic , but when I break down the facts , I am . Several times over , in fact . And I grew up in a family that homeschooled and had us in church 4 times a week , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . That stuff happened while I was inside the church doors , sometimes . And my sister is the same . And my mother qualifies . And if I picture my girlfriends , more than half qualify . And all of these people I 'm thinking of are members of a fairly polished , connected , college-educated ( if not Phd , M.D. , J.D. , etc. ) crowd . <p> So in perspective , I 'd have to venture a guess that the statistics are probably closer to 50-75% , unless you define sexual abuse as rape and rape only . I realize that 's only based on my experience , but my " crowd " would be expected to have lower rates than normal , statistically . <p> If you asked my amazing brothers , though , who grew up alongside all of the same people , I 'm sure they 'd express substantial skepticism as well . It 's not something we generally share with men . Even the " good guys " seem eager to engage in some form of apologetics . <h> Loading comments ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ States we boast and brag that we are a free nation with freedom of choice . How dare anyone judge this woman 's choices ! They are personal and belong to her . The hypocracy is mind blowing ! It really is the land of " judged " and the home of the " arrogant " . Remind me why I served my country again ? Jeeze <p> I have stepped into many a fundamentalist church filled with love , that is , until you share that you may have a Christian idea or two that is different from theirs . Then they very much show their stripes as a " land of the judging , and home of the arrogant " , as Ifried9423 , mentioned . They act as if they know it all . No humility at all . Silent condescension at best . <p> Not ALL churches demonstrate this foolishness . Thank God . But many do act that way . It does n't strike me as behavior that is of God 's true people , or that is truly Christian . <h> Loading comments ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ " crap . You are a human being and you have no idea of my relationship with GOD or any evidence that you know better about GOD than anyone else . I am sick and tired of people like you . You use GOD as a shield to attack everyone who does not think exactly how you think . You use GOD as some sort of BFF as if you could throw the name of GOD around as if it was your own personal weapon . Get over yourself . You are no more special than anyone else . Not the homeless ; not the rich ; not the weekly hypocrites ; and certainy not the people who work their asses off every week to make ends meet . " If you knew God ... " you say ? How freaking dare you . <h> Loading comments ... <h> Loading comments ... <p> An adult remaining a virgin is ridiculous . We are human and sex is a natural part of this experience . To me , she is afraid , really afraid . Good luck finding a virgin man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Seriously , good luck . <p> Lol . Way to be just as dismissive as they were . I like how as a Christian you do n't hesitate in going an eye for an eye . I mean . I think turning the other cheek is the way to go , but trying to make them feel bad probably works equally well . I do n't agree with

@@5034641 <h> College hoops tip-off marathon : Stony Brook at Rider live blog <p> 6:28 - The home crowd for the 6 a.m. game usually embraces the event and provides a solid atmosphere , and it looks like the Rider folks have done a decent job . The sun coming up at some point around halftime is also a nice pat on the back for the marathon viewer . <p> This game has the potential to deliver more excitement than the casual fan might expect . Stony Brook was the preseason favorite in the America East , and Rider destroyed Robert Morris in their season-opener behind St. John 's transfer Nurideen Lindsey 's 26-point debut . <p> Prediction : Rider by 4 <p> 6:33 - A little disappointed by the Rider kids . Not a great deal of enthusiasm in the gym . In their defense , even less enthusiasm coming from y bedroom . <p> 6:43 - The ESPN.com scoreboard is n't even working for this game . Really thinking I 'm the only person alive at this point . Stony Brook leads , 25-17 . <p> 6:48 - St. John 's transfer Nurideen Lindsey went off for Rider @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ points , two fouls and two turnover so far this morning ( feels weird to say ) . <p> 7:06 - We 've made it to the second half and the sun has also risen . Always a major tipoff marathon check point ... the sunrise , not the second half of the 6 a.m. game . Stony Brook 's up 32-23 in a game that 's geting a little bit chippy . <p> 7:38 - Lindsey makes perhaps the play of the marathon so far with a desperation make from near halfcourt that just beat the shot clock buzzer . It 's also a huge basket , as Rider gets the crowd back into the game and moves within four . Stony Brook leads 37-33 at the under eight . Not exactly the up-and-down contest you 'd like to see from the 6 a.m. game , but we 're still here . <p> 7:46 - Crowd really into the game for the first time all morning as Rider inches to within three . Stony Brook with five turnovers in seven possessions , but still clinging to a 37-34 lead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it . <p> 7:53 - The 11-point Stony Brook lead is completely gone as Lindsey buries a three to get the Broncs within two and then Daniel Stewart dunks the game tied . We 're knotted at 41 with four minutes to play . <p> 7:56 - Stony Brook has an answer with the ever-rare back-to-back baskets to regain the lead at 45-41 . <p> 8:04 - Rider pulls the dreaded " play defense for about 25 seconds and then inexplicably give the foul move " to send Stony Brook to the line with 28 seconds left . It blows my mind how how often this happens . The Seawolves lead it , 50-45 . <p> 8:06 - Stony Brook holds on for the 54-46 road victory to move to 3-0 and bring my prediction record to a highly disappointing 2-2 . The game was not a pleasant viewing experience for the first 35 minutes , but fun down the stretch

@@5034741 <h> What Was I Supposed To Be lyrics <h> Ray Boltz What Was I Supposed To Be lyrics <p> Jesus walked upon the earth , On the shores of Galilee , He 'd say to His disciples , Let the little children come to me , I wonder if up in heaven , Do you suppose we 'll see Little children asking What was I supposed to be . Chorus What was I supposed to be , What were my eyes supposed to see , And why did I taste of death Before I even drew a breath , Laid my head at my mother 's breast , To sleep . Oh Jesus , Chorus Was I to be a prophet Used in the ministry , A doctor who would find a cure For some terrible disease , Even if I 'd been born imperfect Why could n't my parents see , That I 'd have been made perfect When you came back for me . Oh Jesus Chorus Oh Jesus , what was I supposed to be , Oh Jesus , what was I

@@5034841 <h> Review of molecular mechanisms involved in the activation of the Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway by chemopreventive agents . <h> Source <h> Abstract <p> Human exposures to environmental toxicants have been associated with etiology of many diseases including inflammation , cancer , and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders . To counteract the detrimental effect of environmental insults , mammalian cells have evolved a hierarchy of sophisticated sensing and signaling mechanisms to turn on or off endogenous antioxidant responses accordingly . One of the major cellular antioxidant responses is the induction of antioxidative and **25;8426;TOOLONG enzymes through the cytoplasmic oxidative stress system ( Nrf2-Keap1 ) activated by a variety of natural and synthetic chemopreventive agents . Under normal conditions , Keap1 anchors the Nrf2 transcription factor within the cytoplasm targeting it for ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation to maintain low levels of Nrf2 that mediate the constitutive expression of Nrf2 downstream genes . When cells are exposed to chemopreventive agents and oxidative stress , a signal involving phosphorylation and/or redox modification of critical cysteine residues in Keap1 inhibits the enzymatic activity of the Keap1-Cul3-Rbx1 E3 ubiquitin ligase complex , resulting in decreased Nrf2 ubiquitination and degradation . As a consequence , free Nrf2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ factors ( e.g. , sMaf , ATF4 , JunD , PMF-1 ) transactivates the antioxidant response elements ( AREs ) /electrophile response elements ( EpREs ) of many cytoprotective genes , as well as Nrf2 itself . Upon recovery of cellular redox homeostasis , Keap1 travels into the nucleus to dissociate Nrf2 from the ARE . Subsequently , the Nrf2-Keap1 complex is exported out of the nucleus by the nuclear export sequence ( NES ) in Keap1 . Once in the cytoplasm , the Nrf2-Keap1 complex associates with the Cul3-Rbx1 core ubiquitin machinery , resulting in degradation of Nrf2 and termination of the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway . The discovery of multiple nuclear localization signals ( NLSs ) and nuclear export signals ( NESs ) in Nrf2 also suggests that the nucleocytoplasm translocation of transcription factors is the consequence of a dynamic equilibrium of multivalent NLSs and NESs . On the other hand , Keap1 may provide an additional regulation of the quantity of Nrf2 both in basal and inducible conditions . This chapter summarizes the current body of knowledge regarding the molecular mechanisms through which ARE inducers ( chemopreventive agents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ II and antioxidant enzymes as well as other defensive proteins , via the nuclear factor-erythroid 2 ( NF-E2-p45 -related factor 2(Nrf2)/ (

@@5034941 <p> I want to talk to you again for a little while , dear Mr. Kappus , although there is almost nothing I can say that will help you , and I can hardly find one useful word . You have had many sadnesses , large ones , which passed . And you say that even this passing was difficult and upsetting for you . But please , ask yourself whether these large sadnesses have n't rather gone right through you . Perhaps many things inside you have been transformed ; perhaps somewhere , someplace deep inside your being , you have undergone important changes while you were sad . The only sadnesses that are dangerous and unhealthy are the ones that we carry around in public in order to drown them out with the noise ; like diseases that are treated superficially and foolishly , they just withdraw and after a short interval break out again all the more terribly ; and gather inside us and are life , are life that is unlived , rejected , lost , life that we can die of . If only it were possible for us to see farther than our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our presentiment , perhaps we would bear our sadnesses with greater trust than we have in our joys . For they are the moments when something new has entered us , something unknown ; our feelings grow mute in shy embarrassment , everything in us withdraws , a silence arises , and the new experience , which no one knows , stands in the midst of it all and says nothing . <p> It seems to me that almost all our sadnesses are moments of tension , which we feel as paralysis because we no longer hear our astonished emotions living . Because we are alone with the unfamiliar presence that has entered us ; because everything we trust and are used to is for a moment taken away from us ; because we stand in the midst of a transition where we can not remain standing . That is why the sadness passes : the new presence inside us , the presence that has been added , has entered our heart , has gone into its innermost chamber and is no longer even there , is already in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was . We could easily be made to believe that nothing happened , and yet we have changed , as a house that a guest has entered changes . We ca n't say who has come , perhaps we will never know , but many signs indicate that the future enters us in this way in order to be transformed in us , long before it happens . And that is why it is so important to be solitary and attentive when one is sad : because the seemingly uneventful and motionless moment when our future steps into us is so much closer to life than that other loud and accidental point of time when it happens to us as if from outside . The quieter we are , the more patient and open we are in our sadnesses , the more deeply and serenely the new presence can enter us , and the more we can make it our own , the more it becomes our fate ; and later on , when it " happens " ( that is , steps forth out of us to other people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in our innermost being . And that is necessary . It is necessary - and toward this point our development will move , little by little - that nothing alien happen to us , but only what has long been our own . People have already had to rethink so many concepts of motion ; and they will also gradually come to realize that what we call fate does not come into us from the outside , but emerges from us . It is only because so many people have not absorbed and transformed their fates while they were living in them that they have not realized what was emerging from them ; it was so alien to them that , in their confusion and fear , they thought it must have entered them at the very moment they became aware of it , for they swore they had never before found anything like that inside them . just as people for a long time had a wrong idea about the sun 's motion , they are even now wrong about the motion of what is to come . The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move in infinite space . <p> How could it not be difficult for us ? <p> And to speak of solitude again , it becomes clearer and clearer that fundamentally this is nothing that one can choose or refrain from . We are solitary . We can delude ourselves about this and act as if it were not true . That is all . But how much better it is to recognize that we are alone ; yes , even to begin from this realization . It will , of course , make us dizzy ; for all points that our eyes used to rest on are taken away from us , there is no longer anything near us , and everything far away is infinitely far . A man taken out of his room and , almost without preparation or transition , placed on the heights of a great mountain range , would feel something like that : an unequalled insecurity , an abandonment to the nameless , would almost annihilate him . He would feel he was falling or think he was being catapulted out into space or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his brain would have to invent in order to catch up with and explain the situation of his senses . That is how all distances , all measures , change for the person who becomes solitary ; many of these changes occur suddenly and then , as with the man on the mountaintop , unusual fantasies and strange feelings arise , which seem to grow out beyond all that is bearable . But it is necessary for us to experience that too . We must accept our reality as vastly as we possibly can ; everything , even the unprecedented , must be possible within it . This is in the end the only kind of courage that is required of us : the courage to face the strangest , most unusual , most inexplicable experiences that can meet us . The fact that people have in this sense been cowardly has done infinite harm to life ; the experiences that are called it apparitions , the whole so-called " spirit world , " death , all these Things that are so closely related to us , have through our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the senses with which we might have been able to grasp them have atrophied . To say nothing of God . But the fear of the inexplicable has not only impoverished the reality of the individual ; it has also narrowed the relationship between one human being and another , which has as it were been lifted out of the riverbed of infinite possibilities and set down in a fallow place on the bank , where nothing happens . For it is not only indolence that causes human relationships to be repeated from case to case with such unspeakable monotony and boredom ; it is timidity before any new , inconceivable experience , which we do n't think we can deal with . But only someone who is ready for everything , who does n't exclude any experience , even the most incomprehensible , will live the relationship with another person as something alive and will himself sound the depths of his own being . For if we imagine this being of the individual as a larger or smaller room , it is obvious that most people come to know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the window , one narrow strip on which they keep walking back and forth . In this way they have a certain security . And yet how much more human is the dangerous in security that drives those prisoners in Poe 's stories to feel out the shapes of their horrible dungeons and not be strangers to the unspeakable terror of their cells . We , however , are not prisoners . No traps or snares have been set around us , and there is nothing that should frighten or upset us . We have been put into life as into the element we most accord with , and we have , moreover , through thousands of years of adaptation , come to resemble this life so greatly that when we hold still , through a fortunate mimicry we can hardly be differentiated from everything around us . We have no reason to harbor any mistrust against our world , for it is not against us . If it has terrors , they are our terrors ; if it has abysses , these abysses belong to us ; if there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And if only we arrange our life in accordance with the principle which tells us that we must always trust in the difficult , then what now appears to us as the most alien will become our most intimate and trusted experience . How could we forget those ancient myths that stand at the beginning of all races , the myths about dragons that at the last moment are transformed into princesses ? Perhaps all the dragons in our lives are princesses who are only waiting to see us act , just once , with beauty and courage . Perhaps everything that frightens us is , in its deepest essence , something helpless that wants our love . <p> So you must n't be frightened , dear Mr. Kappus , if a sadness rises in front of you , larger than any you have ever seen ; if an anxiety , like light and cloud-shadows , moves over your hands and over everything you do . You must realize that something is happening to you , that life has not forgotten you , that it holds you in its hand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to shut out of your life any uneasiness , any misery , any depression , since after all you do n't know what work these conditions are doing inside you ? Why do you want to persecute yourself with the question of where all this is coming from and where it is going ? Since you know , after all , that you are in the midst of transitions and you wished for nothing so much as to change . If there is anything unhealthy in your reactions , just bear in mind that sickness is the means by which an organism frees itself from what is alien ; so one must simply help it to be sick , to have its whole sickness and to break out with it , since that is the way it gets better . In you , dear Mr. Kappus , so much is happening now ; you must be patient like someone who is sick , and confident like some one who is recovering ; for perhaps you are both . And more : you are also the doctor , who has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are many days when the doctor can do nothing but wait . And that is what you , insofar as you are your own doctor , must now do , more than anything else . <p> Do n't observe yourself too closely . Do n't be too quick to draw conclusions from what happens to you ; simply let it happen . Otherwise it will be too easy for you to look with blame ( that is : morally ) at your past , which naturally has a share in everything that now meets you . But whatever errors , wishes , and yearnings of your boyhood are operating in you now are not what you remember and condemn . The extraordinary circumstances of a solitary and helpless childhood are so difficult , so complicated , surrendered to so many influences and at the same time so cut off from all real connection with life that , where a vice enters it , one may not simply call it a vice . One must be so careful with names anyway ; it is so often the name of an offense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personal action itself , which was perhaps a quite definite necessity of that life and could have been absorbed by it without any trouble . And the expenditure of energy seems to you so great only because you overvalue victory ; it is not the " great thing " that you think you have achieved , although you are right about your feeling ; the great thing is that there was already something there which you could replace that deception with , something true and real . Without this even your victory would have been just a moral reaction of no great significance ; but in fact it has be come a part of your life . Your life , dear Mr. Kappus , which I think of with so many good wishes . Do you remember how that life yearned out of childhood toward the " great thing " ? I see that it is now yearning forth beyond the great thing toward the greater one . That is why it does not cease to be difficult , but that is also why it will not cease to grow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I must say to you , it is this : Do n't think that the person who is trying to comfort you now lives untroubled among the simple and quiet words that sometimes give you pleasure . His life has much trouble and sadness , and remains far behind yours . If it were otherwise ,

@@5035041 <p> ' They say that love is forever , your forever is all that I need . ' Damon and Kol met in 1864 . They had a secret fling . Damon turned . Kol left . Now they 've been reunited in 2012 . What will occur ? /Please leave a review. / <p> Damon took a swig of his favourite drink from The Grill ; bourbon whiskey . He turned to his left and rolled his eyes at Alaric who was stood by the darts board . Damon had brought Alaric here for a ' guys night ' , but he 'd just gone off with Jenna Sommers , the hot , ginger , Gilbert aunt . His lips curved into a smirk as he turned to face the bartender , Matt Donovan . <p> " Hey mini Mattie . " Matt rolled his eyes and sat opposite Damon . <p> " What 'd you want ? " Damon tutted and shook his head , tapping his ring against the bar . <p> " Is that really any way to talk to your customers ? " He shook his head and carried on , not waiting for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another bourb- " Damon 's words were cut off as the slight movement of the door caught his eye and he turned his head . <p> " Kol .. " he whispered and his skin tingled . He finished the rest of his drink in one swig and turned on the stool . It was then that the blue eyed vampire locked eyes with the youngest male Original . Kol . <p> There he stood , next to the pool bar along with a group of men which Damon had never set eyes on before . Kol 's dark mahogany eyes flickered from one man to the next as he took a swig of his own drink . Picking up the pool cue which had been resting on the table , he walked around before leaning over the edge of the table to take his shot . <p> " Damon ? " Matt was still stood in the same place , watching Damon as he fixed his blue eyes onto the Original . <p> " I ... Hm. " hesitating for a moment as he still processed what he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dismissing nod before turning back to the bar , preventing himself from looking over where Kol stood . <p> He stared at the back wall as he tapped his ring against the bar , fishing through his thoughts . <p> The last time he had seen Kol was the night he died , the night Damon was turned . <p> Mystic falls ; 1864 . <p> Damon 's father charged into his bedroom , throwing him a pair of his best trousers . <p> " Up , up , up ! We have guests and I want you looking well . " Damon groaned and sat up , the covers falling from his bare chest . <p> " Alright , fine . I 'll be down soon , father . " Damon pushed himself up from his bed , pulling on his best clothes before attaching his black braces to his trousers ; pulling them over his shoulders as he walked out of the room . <p> " Do you know who is here ? " Stefan 's voice rang in his ears as he gazed over at him with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get up . He never specified on who was here . " he shrugged lightly , pulling on his shoes as Stefan walked over to him . <p> " It must be someone important or he would n't have made us dress like this . " Stefan looked down at his own clothes before looking over at Damon 's as he stood up straight . <p> " Everyone who comes here is important in fathers opinion , Stefan . " Damon rolled his eyes as he walked down the stairs . <p> Both Damon and Stefan walked into the front room to meet whoever father had invited in . <p> " Boys , I would like you to meet our most recent guest , Mr. Mikaelson . He shall be staying here for a while . " their father 's eyes went from looking at them both to the tall man who stood beside him . Damon watched the tall man as his lips curled into a grin , holding out his hand as Stefan walked towards him ; taking the man 's hand in his before shaking it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ name , Kol . " Damon did n't move from where he was stood , his crystal blue eyes fixed on Kol 's deep brown eyes as he shook Stefan 's hand . <p> " Damon , do n't be rude . " hearing his fathers voice echo in his ears he blinked once as he shook his head once to break the gaze . <p> " Sorry father . " he mumbled as he walked over to Kol , taking hold of his hand firmly then shaking it . <p> " Firm grip you have there , Damon . " Kol fixed his eyes on Damon once more before turning to Giuseppe . <p> " And where shall I be staying ? " he raised his brow as he glared at him . <p> " You shall be staying in the guest bedroom near Stefan 's room . " Giuseppe nodded once before looking over at Stefan with a stern glare . <p> " Show him his room Stefan . " He then looked over at Damon after Stefan nodded , taking Kol 's once bag before leading him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be sorting the table . We 're short on staff and lunch will be be done soon . " Damon had learnt not to argue against his father as he never won . <p> " Okay father . " He nodded once before walking away . <p> Damon stood in the dining room ; placing a single glass by each plate . <p> " Does your father always make you do the slaves work ? " Kol 's alluring voice came from across the room as Damon put down the last glass . He looked up to see Kol stood at the doorway in his black suit , his hands buried in his pockets as he watched Damon carefully . <p> " We 're short on staff . " Damon shook his head slowly as he began to gather cutlery . <p> " Ah , I see . " Kol lifted his head slowly before dropping it back down , he began to walk slowly towards Damon . <p> " Need any help ? " this question surprised Damon , how could someone who seemed so high in society want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in reply to the question , Kol walked over to him ; taking the cutlery he had from his hands before walking past him , brushing his shoulder against Damon 's . <p> " Thanks ... May I ask you a question ? " Kol looked over his shoulder at Damon as he took more cutlery then walking over to the opposite side of the table . <p> " Sure . " Damon nodded as he started to place the cutlery onto the table . <p> " Is it true that you fought in the civil war ? Stefan said you were only back on break ? " Damon looked over at Kol , nodding his head once then looking back at the table . <p> " Yeah , I came back not long ago . " Kol stood up straight , watching Damon place the last set of cutlery down on the table . <p> " And how long are you staying for ? " Kol asked as he walked around the table towards Damon . <p> " I 'm not sure . As long as I get . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so much yet he shrugged lightly instead of asking him . <p> The conversation was cut off quick as Giuseppe entered the room alone , his eyes fixed on Kol and Damon as they stood meters apart . <p> " We were sorting out the table , father . " Damon chewed the inside of his cheek as he glared back at his father . <p> " I said for you to sort the table . Not you and Mr. Mikaelson. " he scowled at Damon as he walked over to him , swatting him around the head . <p> Kol 's eyes widened as he watched Giuseppe 's hand make contact with the side of Damon 's head , there was a sudden flash of anger his eyes as he narrowed his eyes towards Giuseppe but he suddenly turned away to hide his expression . <p> " And I asked Damon if he wanted my help . " he let out a cough to get rid of the annoyance in his voice . <p> " You should n't be helping with housework , Kol . Damon was told to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ " Giuseppe tried to keep his voice calm yet there was a hint of anger from the fact Kol had argued back . <p> " I did n't mind . I wanted to get to know Damon . " Kol narrowed his eyes down at Giuseppe as he arched a brow . " Do you have a problem with that ? " His voice had become more hostile with annoyance as he questioned Giuseppe . <p> " Not at all . " Giuseppe shook his head as he avoided making eye contact with Kol . Damon had never seen his father give up in an argument . <p> All three men looked over at the door as they heard two sets of feet walking towards them . <p> Stefan soon entered the room accompanied by Katherine , a beautiful young woman with olive skin along with flowing dark chocolate hair . She flashed Damon a quick teasing smile as they walked towards them before her eyes fixed upon Kol . Her deep brown eyes meeting his as he looked her up and down , looking at every fine detail in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ " Hello , Stefan . Who is this beautiful woman who is beside you ? " Although Kol 's voice sounded convincing the way he looked at Katherine showed no interest . <p> " The name is Katherine Pierce . " she stated before Stefan could say a word , unlinking her arm from Stefan 's she walked over to Kol , holding her hand out . <p> " And who might you be ? " she gave him the same teasing smile she gave Damon as he took her hand in his , placing a single kiss to her knuckles . <p> " Kol , Kol Mikaelson . " Katherine 's eyes widened with shock at the sound of a name she 'd once heard before , sliding her hand from his

@@5035141 <h> Football 's Lewis returns to running back <p> The redshirt sophomore returned to running back Tuesday , and he 'll remain at the position for the rest of the season . <p> " We tried to move him over to DB ( defensive back ) and I think it 's been tough from a learning standpoint for him , " coach Todd Graham said . " He was kind of excited about it for a couple weeks and got confused and hit a wall . " <p> Lewis said that he was excited to go back to playing his natural position . <p> " I feel more comfortable back there ( at running back ) taking my steps and being able to start reading again , " Lewis added . " It 's something that I love to do . <p> Lewis has had an atypical career at ASU . <p> " Freshman running back who lived up to the hype " is how the ASU Athletics website described Lewis 's first year as a Sun Devil , but it 's hardly reflective by his recent productivity . <p> He had 539 rushing yards , 370 receiving and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ toward becoming an ASU star took an unexpected turn when he was shot and missed all of last season . <p> Lewis returned this season to a crowded backfield . Senior running back Cameron Marshall , junior running back Marion Grice and freshman running back D.J . Foster have split the reps at the position . Lewis was left out the picture . He has just four carries for 12 yards this season . <p> Graham moved Lewis to defensive back to create depth and get his best players on the field . Lewis collected four tackles in five games , but he has not played in ASU 's last three games . Lewis was not on the travel roster against USC last weekend . <p> " We 're trying to create depth somehow , someway , but it seldom works out , " Graham said . " Deantre helped us out some in nickel-and-dime ( packages ) . I think he was n't able to progress . It 's hard to learn with lots of stuff like that to be able to get in there . <p> " We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we would n't play him . If he 's not going to play , we 'd rather to him back over there and give us some depth at running back . " <p> Lewis said he felt a step behind during practice because he has n't been with the offense in nine weeks . <p> " That 's something I 've got to study and work on , work on real hard , " Lewis said . " There 's just a lot of plays I need to study and get better at . " <p> Offensive coordinator Mike Norvell said it was good to have Lewis back on offense . <p> " Obviously , we 've got some good backs and getting Deantre back over there and getting him working and back in the swing of the things , " Norvell said . " Whether that shows up in the next few weeks , I 'm not sure , but definitely he 's a guy that 's got great talent and can help this program and this team . <p> As much as Lewis ' playing time remains a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lewis said he does n't know where he 'll play when spring practice rolls around . He said he needed more time at defensive back to excel at the position , and playing defense in the spring is a possibility . <p> " As of right now , I do n't know , " Lewis said . " In the offseason , I 'll tell

@@5035241 <h> Thursday , April 02 , 2009 <h> " The precedent that it would have set for public art would have been terrible -- we had to fight it " <p> On the occasion of a gallery show of his work opening tonight , the LA Times profiles mural artist Kent Twitchell , whose six-story high " Ed Ruscha Monument " was painted over in 2006 , leading to a lawsuit against the federal government ( among others ) , which settled for $1.1 million , " believed to be the largest amount ever awarded under VARA . " The paper says " negotiations have begun to re-create ' Ed Ruscha '

@@5035341 <h> Did the Reagan-era USDA really classify ketchup as a vegetable ? <p> July 16 , 2004 <p> Dear Cecil : <p> The phrase " ketchup is a vegetable " is coming up a lot in discussions of President Reagan 's recent demise . What 's the story behind that line ? Who classifies ketchup , or any other food , as a vegetable , meat , legume , etc ? Why do they feel a need to make these official classifications ? Who in the Reagan administration actually made that decision ? I 've also heard that the ketchup-as-vegetable thing was really Carter 's doing and that salsa was classified as a vegetable by Clinton . When I search for the origin of the phrase , all I get are a bunch of political sites repeating it without explanation . <p> -- Russ , via e-mail <p> No wonder . The story is so convoluted that it defied simple explanation at the time . Even today , the episode can be plausibly presented ( depending on the political leanings of the presenter ) as either a simple bureaucratic screwup or an unsuccessful effort by the right to pursue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . <p> Ketchup and other food products are classified for different purposes by different agencies under a wide variety of federal programs . The classification in this case was by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for its subsidized school lunch program . Then as now , local school districts could receive reimbursement for each lunch served provided it met minimum standards . In mid-1981 , only a few months after Reagan took office , Congress cut $1 billion from child-nutrition funding and gave the USDA 90 days--the blink of an eye , for the federal bureaucracy--to come up with new standards that would enable school districts to economize , in theory without compromising nutrition . <p> The USDA convened a panel of nutritionists and food service directors to ponder what to do . One option on the table--no one later would admit to putting it there--was to " accept catsup as a fruit/vegetable when used as an ingredient . " Some panel members seized on this as an opportunity to discuss whether to count ketchup even if used as a condiment . From what I can tell , the motive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about what kids would actually eat . USDA standards at the time required that a reimbursable lunch consist of five items : meat , milk , bread , and two servings of fruit or vegetables . Many kids refused to eat the veggies and the stuff wound up as " plate waste . " Would-be realists on the panel reasoned that if they could count ketchup as a vegetable they could meet federal standards without having to throw away so many lima beans , thereby saving money while having no impact on the kids . Looked at in a certain light , it made sense . Ketchup was n't the only newly permissible substitute : pickle relish and conceivably other condiments could also count as vegetables ( precise interpretation was left to state officials ) ; protein sources like tofu or cottage cheese could replace meat ; and corn chips , pretzels , and other snacks could replace bread . Minimum portion sizes were also reduced , purportedly another effort to reduce waste . <p> Mid-level Reaganauts at the USDA saw all this as a matter of giving the states @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rest of the world would see it as taking food away from children . Unfortunately for Reagan , the 90-day deadline allowed no time for higher review . When the proposed new rules were released for comment in September 1981 , food activists went ballistic . Democratic politicians staged photo ops where they feasted on skimpy-looking meals that conformed to the new standards . The mortified administration withdrew the proposal and the USDA official in charge of the program was transferred , a move widely interpreted as a firing . One person who did n't come out of the mess with ketchup on his face was Jimmy Carter , who 'd had nothing to do with it . <p> So , a garden-variety goof , right ? It looked worse than that , thanks to agriculture secretary John Block , an antiregulatory zealot who attempted to defend the new rules after the fact , claiming they 'd been misunderstood . Nonsense ; they were just stupid . All intentions aside , counting condiments as vegetables and reducing portion sizes were an invitation to abuse . A few months later the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policy already used in high schools , called " offer vs. serve " --schools still had to offer the five meal components , but students could refuse any two . In the 90s , the Clinton administration got little grief when it proposed counting salsa as a vegetable , as properly made salsa has more nutritional heft than sugar-laden ketchup . <p> A reprise of the ketchup fiasco loomed recently when a federal judge approved new USDA regs classifying batter-coated french fries as a fresh vegetable . Another attempt by the GOP to feed junk food to the playground set ? Actually , it had more to do with creditor priority during bankruptcy settlements , believe it or not--but please , do n't ask me

@@5035441 <p> The future time is determined by the main verb or by the context , so a verb in a subordinate clause referring to the future time appears in the simple present tense after subordinating conjunctions ( after , before , until , when , as soon as .. ) <p> By the time I arrive at the hotel , I will have something to eat . When I arrive at the hotel , I 'll take/have a shower . As soon as I get there I 'll .... <p> " By the time I arrive at the hotel I 'll have somerhing to eat " does n't sound completely right to me . I see a difference in meaning between that sentence and " As soon as I arrive I 'll have something to eat " . " By the time " in my opinion suggests that the action in the main clause started or happened before your arrival . This example makes more sense to me : " I 'm late ! By the time I arrive at the hotel , she will have been waiting for hours ! " or " By the time I arrive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ " <p> Sorry . Completely wrong . After by the time use the present ( or present perfect ) if speaking from the viewpoint of the present : By the time I arrive at the hotel , ... By the time I have arrived at the hotel , ... Use past ( or past perfect ) if speaking from the viewpoint of the past : By the time I arrived at the hotel , ... By the time I had arrived at the

@@5035541 <p> Without any evidence , many prominent media outlets -- from The Atlantic Wire to New York magazine -- were speculating that Paula Broadwell 's husband was the person who had written a letter to that weekly advice column last summer , concerned about his wife 's extramarital affair with David H. Petraeus , the former general and now former C.I.A . director . <p> Twitter was abuzz , too . How delicious , the notion went , that a situation so fraught with high-level figures would have been treated in an advice column to a newspaper months before . <p> Then came a definitive-sounding Twitter message from the magazine 's editor , Hugo Lindgren . The rumor had been fact-checked and it was false , he said . This was duly sent around the globe in further Twitter messages , and the rumor died a relatively quiet death . <p> Some readers ( and a blogger for The New Republic ) have questioned this move . One reader , Lou Kramberg , was among them . He wrote to me : <p> A New York Times editor has denied that a letter to the Ethicist last summer was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an affair with General Petraeus . The sender requested that his name be withheld and it was withheld by the Ethicist . Let us assume that the letter was indeed sent by another husband and let us suppose that a similar incident occurs in the future . Only this time , the letter writer is indeed the husband of the accused woman . Any response other than a false denial would be in violation of the wishes of the writer to have their name withheld . Would n't it have been better in the Petraeus situation for The Times to have stated that they would not ask the Ethicist who wrote the letter as a matter of confidentiality and leave it at that ? <p> Did the editor reveal exactly who the person in the July 13 column was ? No . But he did reveal who it was n't . That seems like a deal breaker of the trust that reader-submitters have when writing to advice columnists . Unless the advisee expressly offers details about their life , it seems the adviser should have no comment on any such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's still a revelation . And , without putting too fine a point on it , the non-announcement sets a terrible precedent . Should a similar situation involving the anonymity of advice column patients happen again , people will demand confirmation of identity -- and assume that the editor 's silence means they are on the right track . <p> I asked both Mr. Lindgren and The Times 's standards editor , Philip B. Corbett , about the denial . Both said that the decision was a carefully considered one , and one that they had discussed with Dean Baquet , a managing editor . <p> " The point of my denial on Twitter was to provide accurate information , " Mr. Lindgren said . " There was a great deal of speculation out there that this letter had been written by Paula Broadwell 's husband , and since we had good reason to believe that was n't true , I said so . " <p> As for what might happen in the future , both editors said that it 's hard to address a hypothetical situation . <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while respecting the confidentiality of those to whom it has been promised , " Mr. Lindgren said . <p> Mr. Corbett said : " It 's tricky . This is an unusual situation and it 's difficult to extrapolate . " <p> Does this in any way suggest that The Times wo n't protect its news sources ? No . A person who writes to an advice columnist expects not to have his or her name revealed but is , as Mr. Corbett noted , " not a confidential source in the classic sense . " <p> The editors did not reveal an identity , or make any promises about what they would do in a future situation . <p> They chose to quell a rumor for the sake of accuracy , and without breaking trust with the letter-writer . <p> It 's a close call . The opposing argument has merit , particularly because the editors ' decision may seem to set a precedent . But , given the specifics of this situation , I think that Times editors made a reasonable decision . <p> Update : Grantland published @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with his take on the letter , his response and

@@5035641 <p> Despite great strides made by the international women 's rights movement over many years , women and girls around the world are still married as children or trafficked into forced labor and sex slavery . They are refused access to education and political participation , and some are trapped in conflicts where rape is perpetrated as a weapon of war . Around the world , deaths related to pregnancy and childbirth are needlessly high , and women are prevented from making deeply personal choices in their private lives . Human Rights Watch is working toward the realization of women 's empowerment and gender equality -- protecting the rights and improving the lives of women and girls on the ground . <h> Women 's Rights <p> The tragic death of a woman denied an abortion in Ireland should catalyze the Irish government to fulfill its international human rights obligation to ensure access to safe and legal abortions . Savita Halappanavar , 31 , who was 17 weeks pregnant , died from septicemia on October 28 , 2012 at a hospital in Galway after she was refused an abortion and miscarried . <p> The risk of deportation prevents many migrant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protection they need , Human Rights Watch said in a report released today . The report was released in advance of Women 's Day in Belgium , November 11 , 2012 . <p> For several years now , the Chechen authorities have been engaged in a " virtue campaign " for women , the headscarf policy being one of its core elements . They enforce a compulsory dress code on women in Chechnya in public institutions , including schools , government offices , and hospitals , and attempt to extend it to public places as such , including for example streets , parks , shops , and entertainment centers . <p> In a historic move this week , Uruguayan President Jos Mujica has signed into law a bill that waives criminal penalties for abortion in the first 12 weeks of gestation , with certain procedural requirements , and in the first 14 weeks of gestation in the cases of rape . <p> US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton should publicly announce a strategy to protect women 's rights in Afghanistan before she leaves office in 2013 , Human Rights Watch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rights are increasingly at risk in the run-up to the scheduled drawdown of international troops at the end of 2014 and decreasing funding and attention to Afghanistan . <p> The U.N . Human Rights Council recently passed a resolution on " traditional values of humankind " as a vehicle for " promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms . " It sounds innocuous , but its implications are ominous . Indeed , it is an immediate threat to the rights of many vulnerable groups -- including women and lesbian , gay , bi-sexual and transgender ( LGBT ) people . And it flies in the face of the founding principles of universality and indivisibility enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights . <p> The first UN International Day of the Girl , designed to promote education for young women everywhere , is the perfect opportunity to finally stamp out child marriage

@@5035741 <h> City school board reinstates principal who had been fired over alleged cheating <p> The city school board reinstated a principal Monday night who had been fired by CEO Andrs Alonso over alleged cheating at her school . <p> But the reinstatement of Abbottston Elementary School Principal Angela Faltz wo n't take effect until 2013 , and she wo n't receive back pay . <p> Board members also upheld Alonso 's decision to dismiss Marcy Isaac , the assistant principal of Abbottston Elementary , who had been testing coordinator . <p> " The decision made this evening was a travesty to the Baltimore Public School System , " said Jimmy Gittings , president of the administrators union , which has been fighting the dismissals for more than a year . " It is quite obvious that Dr. Andrs Alonso , the CEO , can buy anything he wants from the board of school commissioners . This decision was a slap in the face of every child , every parent , every teacher and every administrator in this system . " <p> Board members did not discuss the decisions and left without commenting . <p> Alonso said after the board @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the deliberations , so I would need to read the board 's opinions in order to understand what that means . " <p> In 2010 , Alonso dismissed Faltz and Isaac , who had been held responsible for suspected cheating at the Northeast Baltimore school on the Maryland School Assessment tests during the 2008-2009 school year . <p> In May , two hearing officers , attorneys hired by the school system to review facts and render opinions regarding personnel cases , found that , contrary to Alonso 's assertions , there was not enough reliable evidence to confirm that cheating had taken place at the school . <p> The hearing officers recommended that the two administrators be reinstated , with back pay . <p> When the brief meeting was over Monday , Isaac buried her head in the arms of family members and wept . She later declined comment . Faltz shook her head without commenting before leaving the room . <p> Gittings vowed to continue fighting , saying that he will next go to Gov . Martin O'Malley and Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake . He added that he will start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ board members removed . <p> Alicia Wilson , one of the attorneys for Faltz and Isaac , said , " It 's disheartening that this board would be allowed to overrule two independent hearing officers . ... After looking into the faces of countless witnesses , after hearing the testimony , it 's an outrage . There is something rotten in this school system for this to be able to happen . " <p> Alonso dismissed the administrators , who each had more than 20 years of experience in the city , after the school 's 2010 MSA scores showed a 30 percent decline in math and a 37 percent decline in reading . Abbottston had achieved 100 percent proficiency the previous school year . U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan had visited Abbottston and commended the school on its achievement . <p> According to documents obtained by The Baltimore Sun in May , the statement of charges accused Faltz and Isaac of failing to ensure that tests were administered properly and that security regulations were followed . <p> The school system said evidence from pretests that analyzed students ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the school district found that the significant increase or decrease in test scores could not have occurred without improprieties . <p> Last year , Alonso said a Maryland State Department of Education investigation that centered primarily on analysis of test erasures -- an analysis that hearing officers later deemed " crude " and " incompetent " -- confirmed that cheating had taken place . Gittings called Alonso 's dismissal a rush to judgment . <p> The union

@@5035841 <p> Goofy Goof is an animated character created in 1932 at Walt Disney Productions . He is a tall , anthropomorphic dog who is a close friend of Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck . Along with not being extremely intelligent , Goofy 's main flaw is , predictably , clumsiness . <h> Personality <p> Clumsy , unintelligent , childish , and pure goofy are some of the few words that describes Goofy . Aside from this he is extremely lovable and very charming which is shown when he confessed his love for Clarabelle . To his friends Mickey and Donald he is sometimes considered annoying , but they still care for him and they count him as a close friend . <p> It can be possible that he does not always enjoy being Goofy as his " How To " cartoons revolve around him trying out a new " pass time " and going to great lengths to accomplish it properly . Many times , in his classic cartoons , he has been dumbstruck by women being the only one of his friends not to have a love interest at the time . <p> He has shown a level @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sports player which requires the ability to follow tactics . He is also smart enough to raise a child alone and provide the best care and eventually see his child grow into a responsible adult . Goofy sometimes notices things others do n't . He is very caring and sympathetic and is always willing to help , although usually ends up doing more harm than good . Goofy has been shown to be embarrassed by his clumsiness at times . <p> While naturally on the carefree side , Goofy has a serious tone most often seen when his son Max is in the scene . Like most parents , Goofy is only strict when necessary and makes certain that a minor friction between him and his son does n't destroy their bond . While Max feels embarrassed by his father 's actions several times , he sees his father as only " highly animated " . Goofy 's stern side is also seen when he feels he 's been insulted , although most of the time it 's a misunderstanding . Even though he himself takes pride in being a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rude synonym names along the lines of dummy , or idiot with the exception of Donald . <h> Background <p> In A Goofy Movie , a map belonging to " Benjamin Goof " depicts a trip that Goofy took with his father , implying Benjamin as the name of Goofy 's paternal parent . In Goof Troop , Goofy claims he was born in California as the first-born Goof in America . Goofy 's wife has appeared - but always with her face unseen - in some earlier short cartoons depicting the character as a " family man " , but his modern appearances portray Goofy as a widower and single father raising his only son , Max Goof . Goofy 's family life contrasts with other major Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck , who are always shown only as uncles rather than parental figures . ( In comic books , Goofy was regularly featured as having a nephew , Gilbert , but that character has only existed in comics , with no cartoon appearances . ) In the European comic books , Goofy has an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Indiana Pipps ) , who is a spoof of the archaeologist Indiana Jones . <p> Goofy 's catch phrases are " gawrsh ! " ( which is his usual exclamation of surprise ) , along with " ah-hyuck ! " ( a distinctive chuckle ) , and especially the Goofy holler ( see below ) . In his 1930s cartoon appearances , Goofy commonly wore a black vest , blue pants , a turtleneck shirt ( colored either red or orange ) , white gloves , extra-long brown shoes , and a very distinctive hat ( either blue or green ) . This has been the character 's iconic look ever since , even though it was seldom featured in cartoons after the 1930s . <p> The Goofy holler is a stock sound effect that is used frequently in Disney cartoons and films . It is the cry Goofy makes when falling or being launched into the air , which could be transcribed as " **26;1819;TOOLONG ! ! " The holler was originally recorded by yodeller Hanns Schrolle for the 1941 short The Art of Skiing . Some sources claim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Farmer , the current voice of Goofy , demonstrated the " Goofy Holler " in the Disney Treasures DVD The Complete Goofy . He has a saying that has also stuck with the crowd , " Gawrsh " . <h> Appearances <h> Early years <p> Goofy first appeared in Mickey 's Revue , first released on May 25 , 1932 . Directed by Wilfred Jackson this short movie features Mickey Mouse , Minnie Mouse , Horace Horsecollar and Clarabelle Cow performing another song and dance show . Mickey and his gang 's animated shorts by this point routinely featured song and dance numbers . It begins as a typical Mickey cartoon of the time , but what would set this short apart from all that had come before was the appearance of a new character , whose behavior served as a running gag . Dippy Dawg , as he was named by Disney artists , was a member of the audience . He constantly irritated his fellow spectators by noisily crunching peanuts and laughing loudly , till two of those fellow spectators knocked him out with their mallets ( and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . This early version of Goofy had other differences with the later and more developed ones besides the name . He was an old man with a white beard , a puffy tail and no trousers , shorts , or undergarments . But the short introduced Goofy 's distinct laughter . This laughter was provided by Pinto Colvig . A considerably younger Dippy Dawg then appeared in The Whoopee Party , first released on September 17 , 1932 , as a party guest and a friend of Mickey and his gang . Dippy Dawg made a total of four appearances in 1932 and two more in 1933 , but most of them were mere cameos . But by his seventh appearance , in Orphan 's Benefit first released on August 11 , 1934 , he gained the new name " Goofy " and became a regular member of the gang along with new additions Donald Duck and Clara Cluck . <h> Trio years with Mickey and Donald <p> Mickey 's Service Station directed by Ben Sharpsteen , first released on March 16 , 1935 , was the first of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shorts . Those films had the trio trying to cooperate in performing a certain assignment given to them . Early on they became separated from each other . Then the short 's focus started alternating between each of them facing the problems at hand , each in their own way and distinct style of comedy . The end of the short would reunite the three to share the fruits of their efforts , failure more often than success . Clock Cleaners , first released on October 15 , 1937 , and Lonesome Ghosts , first released on December 24 , 1937 , are usually considered the highlights of this series and animated classics . <p> Progressively during the series Mickey 's part diminished in favor of Donald and Goofy . The reason for this was simple . Between the easily frustrated Donald and the **35;1847;TOOLONG Goofy , Mickey , who became progressively gentler and more laid-back , seemed to act as the straight-man of the trio . The Studio 's artists found that it had become easier coming up with new gags for Goofy or Donald than Mickey , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Polar Trappers , first released on June 17 , 1938 , was the first film to feature Goofy and Donald as a duo . The short features the duo as partners and owners of " Donald and Goofy Trapping Co . " They have settled in the Arctic for an unspecified period of time , to capture live walruses to bring back to civilization . Their food supplies consist of canned beans . The focus shifts between Goofy trying to set traps for walruses and Donald trying to catch penguins to use as food -- both with the same lack of success . Mickey would return in The Whalers , first released in August 19 , 1938 , but this would be the last short of the 1930s to feature all three characters . <h> Breakoff into solo series <p> Goofy next starred at his first solo cartoon Goofy and Wilbur directed by Dick Huemer , first released in March 17 , 1939 . The short featured Goofy fishing with the help of Wilbur , his pet grasshopper . <p> In 1939 , Colvig had a fallout with Disney and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ According to Leonard Maltin this is what caused the How to ... cartoons of the 1940s in which Goofy had little dialogue , and a narrator ( often John McLeish ) was used ( they would also reuse Colvig 's voice in recording or hire a voice actor to imitate it ) . In the cartoons Goofy would demonstrate , clumsily but always determined and never frustrated , how to do everything from snow ski , to sleeping , to football , to riding a horse . The Goofy How to ... cartoons worked so well they that they became a staple format , and are still used in current Goofy shorts . Later , starting with How to Play Baseball ( 1942 ) , Goofy starred in a series of cartoons where every single character in the cartoon was a different version of Goofy . This took Goofy out of the role of just being a clumsy cartoon dog and into an Everyman figure . Colvig returned to Disney in 1944 and resumed the voice of Goofy . Many of the Goofy cartoons were directed by Jack Kinney . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into a family man going through the trials of everyday life , such as dieting , giving up smoking , and the problems of raising children . Walt Disney himself came up with this idea , hoping it would put personality back into the character which he felt was lost when Goofy was merely a crowd of extras . Interestingly , Goofy is never referred to as " Goofy " during this period . While every cartoon continued with the opening , " Walt Disney presents Goofy " , before each cartoon 's title , he was usually called " George Geef " in the cartoons ' dialogue . When the stories featured Goofy as multiple characters , then he had numerous other names as well . In addition , the 50 's Goofy shorts gave Goofy a makeover . He was more intelligent , had smaller eyes with eyebrows , had flesh-colored skin instead of white , and sometimes had a normal voice . He even lacked his droopy ears , the external pair of teeth and white gloves in some shorts . <h> Later appearances <p> Here , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mouse . During the course of the film , Mickey and the Prince of the kingdom swap lives . Goofy is the third to learn of the swap ( after Pluto and Pete ) and when the prince 's father , the king , passes away , they begin to make way for the castle so that Mickey and the Prince can re-switch . However , the evil Captain Pete stops them in their tracks and sends Goofy flying out of a window and to a deep plunge into the river . However , it is revealed that Goofy survived and rescues the Prince who was being held captive . Together , they defeat Pete , rescue Mickey , and the Prince is rightfully crowned king . <p> Goofy , alongside his son Max , is the main protagonist in A Goofy Movie , which is based on the characters appearances on the prior animated series Goof Troop . The film focuses on the father-son relationship between Goofy , who is clumsy , goofy and not very intelligent , and Max , who is a teenager . While Goofy seems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Max is embarrassed by his father 's antics , which leads to some tension between them . <p> After Max gets into trouble on the last day of school , Goofy fears that his son is becoming a delinquent . In order to remedy this , Goofy decides to take Max on a long road trip to Idaho , against the protestations of Max . <p> During the trip , he meets up with Pete , whom he asks for advice on parenting , as Goofy feels that his previous attempts are only driving Max away . Pete advises a strict approach that he believes has made his son P.J. respect him , but when P.J is seen talking with Max it is quite clear that he has confused respect with fear . Goofy finds that the strict approach does n't work for him and rejects it . He decides to give Max more responsibility , by making Max the navigator and allowing him to choose the stops . This appears to work , but when they make a stop at a motel , Pete tells Goofy ( with some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ At first Goofy refuses to believe him , but his trust is shattered when he discovers that Max changed the map route to lead to Los Angeles rather than Idaho . <p> After an argument which leads to their car floating on a river , Goofy and Max finally have an open discussion . Goofy learns that Max is in love with a girl from his school , and that his earlier school trouble had come as a result of trying to impress her . Max had agreed to a date with the girl , named Roxanne , but had had to cancel due to the trip . In order to impress her , Max had lied and stated that Goofy was taking him to see a concert in Los Angeles , and that the two of them would be on stage with the band . Goofy understands , and decides to help Max get on stage . <p> Suddenly the two head over a waterfall . Max is saved , but Goofy falls , until Max rescues him using a maneuver called " The Perfect Cast " , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Goofy and Max are able to get to Los Angeles , and eventually on stage at the concert , which all of Max 's friends are watching on TV . When they return home , Max with Goofy 's support , explains his lie and apologizes to Roxanne . She forgives him , and Max takes the opportunity to introduce her to Goofy . <p> In this sequel to A Goofy Movie , Goofy becomes an empty-nester after Max leaves for college . His resulting depression results in Goofy being fired from his job . In order to obtain a new job , Goofy must get a college degree , which he had failed to obtain earlier as he had dropped out before completing his last year . Goofy decides to go to the same college Max is attending . While there , Goofy pledges to a fraternity , and begins a relationship with the school librarian , Sylvia . Max is initially supportive , but eventually snaps and tells Goofy to get his own life . This hurts Goofy and he considers dropping out , but is encouraged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Gammas , but is able to refocus and pass his midterms . <p> After midterms , Max is scheduled to compete in the X-games , and Goofy learns that the Gammas are planning to cheat to win . He attempts to warn Max , but Max does not listen until one of the Gammas tricks sends P.J. flying . Without a team member , Max 's team is due to be disqualified . Max realizes that Goofy tried to warn him , so he apologizes to Goofy and asks him to join as the third member . Goofy does so , and helps Max to win the final event , as well as the competition . After the term is over , Goofy gets his degree , and leaves with Sylvia , intent on leaving Max to his own devices at college . <p> Goofy features in the segment , Have Yourself a Goofy Christmas . The segment takes place before Goof Troop canonically , and revolves around Goofy trying to get a letter , written by Max , delivered to Santa . When Max is told by Pete @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Santa to prove Pete wrong . However , Goofy is discovered , which disappoints Max . Goofy waits all night for Santa , when Santa does n't come , Max tries to cheer up Goofy . In the end , the real Santa actually comes and gives Max the gift the boy asked for earlier . <p> In this film , Goofy plays a street urchin who becomes a musketeer alongside Mickey and Donald . The trio are assigned to protect Princess Minnie . Unknown to them , Pete has appointed them due to their lack of skill , as skilled musketeers would jeopardize his plans to capture the princess . After Minnie is captured , Goofy attempts to ram the door , but ends up running out the tower window and being bounced back into the room . Goofy is able to repeat the move , and he helps to defeat the Beagle Boy guards who are guarding Minnie . <p> Later , Goofy is lured away from the palace by Clarabelle Cow , and is captured . Clarabelle attempts to kill him , but he flirts with her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the two successfully rescue Mickey , who had also been captured . The trio are able to defeat Pete once and for all . They are made official musketeers , and Goofy and Clarabelle declare their mutual love . <p> Goofy appears with Max in the segment , Christmas Maximus . This segment has Max come home from college for Christmas . With Max is Max 's new girlfriend Mona , who is to meet Goofy . Max asks Goofy ahead of time not to embarrass him , but Goofy 's acts of love , which include Goofy acting as a chauffeur and showing Mona Max 's baby pictures , does just that . Much to Max 's amazement , Mona likes Goofy , and so Max decides to forget his embarrassment and join in the fun . Later during Mickey and Pluto 's segment , Pluto goes missing prompting Scrooge McDuck to purchase a snow plow company so he and the other friends can search for Pluto through the snow . With Goofy driving the snow plow , he accidentally hits Mickey several times throughout the segment . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Santa Claus , and Goofy , along with Max , join the rest of their family in a Christmas carol . <h> Television <p> Goofy appears in the animated opening for the original 1950s version of the television series . He is seen playing a variety of instruments during the Mickey Mouse March and at the end holding a trampoline while Mickey bounces on it . <p> The 1990 's animated show Goof Troop , featured Goofy in a slightly different setting than his classic depiction . In the show , Goofy is a single father to a young son , Max , with whom Goofy shares a loving relationship . In the pilot episode , the two move into a home next door to Pete , who is often annoyed with Goofy , much to the ignorance of the latter . <p> Goofy 's depiction in the series often balanced his typically goofy antics , with his goal of being a good father to Max . In order to teach Max lessons , Goofy would often tell stories of past Goof ancestors . At times , some of Goofy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ noted that this history seems to have only been referenced only in the show itself . The town of Spoonerville , where they lived , was Goofy 's hometown . He grew up with Pete , believing him to be a friend , though Pete was sometimes more antagonistic . <p> Goofy reappears in the animated series Mickey Mouse Works . In the series , Goofy lives out the same roles as he did in the classic shorts . Goofy is reintroduced to the How To cartoons along with the narrator . He made a cameo appearance in Mickey 's Mistake as a visitor asking if Minnie if she saw Mickey . <p> Goofy appeared on House of Mouse as the title club ' s head waiter . Goofy 's son Max Goof also appeared in House of Mouse as the nightclub 's valet , so that Goofy juggled not only his conventional antics but also the father-role displayed in Goof Troop and A Goofy Movie . Goofy also seemed to have a crush on Clarabelle Cow , as he asks her on a date in the House of Mouse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around Goofy including Not So Goofy where Goofy feels rejected after the many complaints centering his constant clumsiness that night . To make up , he learns how to act like a gentleman from Jos Carioca . In the end , Mickey and the gang learn to appreciate Goofy 's antics having him revert to his old ways . Super Goof shows Goofy becoming his superhero alter ego Super Goof via radioactive peanuts . In " Goofy 's Menu Magic " , Goofy temporarily takes over as head chef . His initially horrible cooking is suddenly improved via the wand of the Fairy Godmother . <p> Goofy also was a secondary character in episodes revolving around Max . In " Goofy for a Day " , Goofy challenges Max to be a waiter when Max decides the job is not important . In " Max 's New Car " , Goofy refuses to allow Max to have his own vehicle , feeling that his son is not responsible enough . However , he changes his mind when Max and Mickey are able to remind him that he was once the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cartoon ) . <h> Late 2000s - Present <p> Recently , Goofy starred in a new theatrical cartoon short called How to Hook Up Your Home Theater , which premiered at the Ottawa International Animation Festival . The short received a positive review from animation historian Jerry Beck and then had wide release on December 21 , 2007 in front of National Treasure : Book of Secrets . In 2011 , Goofy appeared in a short cartoon advertising the Disney Cruise Line . The cartoon is known as Checking in with Goofy . In 2012 , Goofy starred in his first live-action short , The Art of Vacationing . Later that year , Goofy made an appearance in the animated short , Electric Holiday as a model . <p> Goofy is one of the six main characters in the CG preschool series . Goofy 's trademark personality returns in the series . Several episodes revolve around Goofy with the first being " Goofy 's Bird " where Goofy and Mickey travel to the forest to return Baby Red Bird whom Goofy adopted . Another recurring role is the role of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wish " and " Super Goof 's Super Puzzle " , Goofy became his famous Super Goof alias to solve clubhouse problems . Goofy 's romantic interest in the show is Clarabelle Cow just like Goofy 's previous television incarnations . In the beginning of the series , Goofy only had a crush on Clarabelle which later on grew into a relationship . Goofy is currently the only main character to be used as a mousekatool which took place in the episode " Minnie and Daisy 's Flower Shower " . A running gag in the show includes Goofy and Donald getting into an argument over something rather childish . The series also depicts Goofy as being fluent in several animal languages including turtle and chicken . <p> Goofy also appears in several episodes of the spin-off series Mickey Mousekersize and along with being one of the friends Mickey gives healthy tips to , Goofy occasionally co-hosts with Mickey and Toodles . <p> Goofy was the star of the popular Magic Kingdom attraction . The story of the ride was , Goofy took the liberty of flying a plane around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closed in 2011 and will be replaced by The Great Goofini . <h> Filmography <h> In comics <p> Comic strips first called the character Dippy Dawg but eventually his name changed to Goofy by 1936 . In the early years the other members of Mickey Mouse 's gang considered him a meddler and a pest , but eventually warmed up to him . <p> The comic strips drawn by Floyd Gottfredson for Disney were generally based on what was going on in the Mickey Mouse shorts at the time but when Donald Duck 's popularity led to Donald Duck gaining his own newspaper strip , Disney decided that he was no longer allowed to appear in Gottfredson 's strips . Accordingly Goofy remained alone as Mickey 's sidekick , replacing Horace Horsecollar as Mickey 's fellow adventurer and companion . Similarly in comics the Mickey Mouse world with Goofy as Mickey 's sidekick was usually very separate from the Donald Duck world and crossovers were rare . <p> In the comics Goofy also had a secret identity known as Super Goof , who appeared again later in one episode of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's girlfriend for some years . <p> In 1990 , when Disney was publishing their own comics , Goofy starred in Goofy Adventures , which featured him starring in various parodies . Unfortunately , perhaps because of poor sales , Goofy Adventures was the first of the company 's titles to be canceled by the Disney Comics Implosion , ending at its 17th issue . Oddly enough , Goofy Adventures was the only one of the canceled titles to declare its cancellation right there ; the other unfortunate titles ended abruptly with no immediate announcement of their cancellation . <h> Video games <p> Goofy appears alongside Donald and Sora in all of the Kingdom Hearts games . Goofy is Captain of the Royal Knights of King Mickey ' s court . He and Disney Castle ' s court magician Donald went out to search for the King , and ends up teaming with Sora for the rest of their journey . He is a loyal freind to all he meets , willing to put his life on the line to protect them . <h> Other video games <p> Goofy was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Apple II and Commodore 64 . Goofy also starred in the Super Nintendo adventure game Goof Troop alongside his son Max and in Goofy 's Hysterical History Tour for the Sega Genesis where he 's a head janitor who must recover the missing pieces of some museum exhibits . <p> He also was in the Nintendo GameCube and Game Boy Advance game Disney Party as a playable character . Two games for kids were released : Goofy 's Fun House for the PlayStation and Goofy 's Railway Express for the Commodore 64 . <p> He also appears in Disney 's Extremely Goofy Skateboarding for the PC and is a playable character in Disney TH ! NK Fast . <h> Trivia <p> Goofy is the only character from the Mickey , Donald and Goofy trio to have a son instead of the usual nephew . In addition , Goofy is the only member of the trio to have a confirmed wife , although Walt Disney has speculated that Mickey and Minnie are married . <p> Although Goofy 's hat is usually colored green , with a black line , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Mickey , Donald and Goofy : The Three Musketeers , his hat was a yellow orange color . ( Sometimes his hat is green with a yellow line . ) <p> The color of Goofy 's vest has been somewhat inconsistent , in most appearances , it is officially black , in some appearances such as Mickey Mouse Clubhouse , his vest is a light brown , and in the Theme Parks and in Kingdom Hearts , it is yellow . <p> His original concept name was " Dippy Dawg " in cartoon shorts created during the 1930s ; then his name was given as " George Geef " or " G.G. Geef " in cartoon shorts during the 1950s , implying that " Goofy " was a nickname . Contemporary sources , including the Goof Troop television show and A Goofy Movie , now give the character 's full name to be Goofy Goof . The Goof Troop pilot also refers to ' G. G. Goof ' on a diploma , likely a reference to the 1950s name . <p> While Goofy is famous for his trademark exclamation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actually saying " Gosh ! " which is the proper way to say said exclamation . <p> Goofy 's mother made an appearance in the Mouse-works

@@5035941 <p> There are a lot of injury issues in the NFC South this week . Let 's take a look at the latest on the most significant injuries : <p> ATLANTA FALCONS <p> The Falcons have a star-studded cast of players listed as questionable for Sunday 's game with Arizona . Receiver Julio Jones , who has not practiced all week due to an ankle injury , highlights the list . If Jones ca n't play Sunday , the Falcons likely would start Harry Douglas and use Drew Davis or recently signed Tim Toone as their third receiver . Linebacker Sean Weatherspoon ( ankle ) did not practice all week , has missed two straight games and is listed as questionable . In the cases of both Jones and Weatherspoon , I would n't be surprised if the Falcons take a cautious approach and sit them , especially since the game is on turf and against a struggling opponent . The Falcons also are listing defensive end John Abraham ( back ) and running back Michael Turner ( groin ) as questionable . But both participated in Friday 's practice on a limited basis . <p> NEW ORLEANS SAINTS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ uncertainty if running back Darren Sproles will be able to play Sunday . Interim coach Joe Vitt said Sproles experienced some swelling in his hand and is listed as questionable . Running back is one position where the Saints have plenty of depth and they can continue to use a rotation of Pierre Thomas , Mark Ingram and Chris Ivory if Sproles is n't ready to go . Right tackle Zach Strief ( groin ) has been ruled out for Sunday . That means it 's likely Charles Brown will start in his place . <p> CAROLINA PANTHERS <p> Despite missing Thursday 's practice receiver/return man Armanti Edwards ( groin ) is probable for Sunday . Coach Ron Rivera also said Jeff Byers will start at right guard Sunday . There had been speculation that Jeremy Bridges , who was signed earlier this week , might move immediately into the starting lineup . But Rivera said Bridges still needs to work on conditioning . <p> TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS <p> Guard Jamon Meredith ( ankle ) participated in Friday 's walk-through , giving the Bucs some hope he might be ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday 's session due to what coach Greg Schiano said was a personal reason . <p> Friday 's NFC South chat was held outside its normal time frame due to a scheduling conflict . But that did n't seem to matter . We got the same great participation as always . <p> Let 's take a run through some of the team-by-team highlights : <p> ATLANTA FALCONS <p> Kyle ( ATL ) : What was the tipping with Ray Edwards ? Why release him now ? Do the 3 guys mentioned as replacements have the talent to produce ? <p> Pat Yasinskas : Like I said , I think it was more than just his lack of production . Maybe his attitude was n't the best and maybe there were concerns about that impacting the locker room . Are the other guys ready to produce ? Not sure about that . But at least they 'll give maximum effort . <p> James Stephens ( Atlanta ) : With Turner 's lack of speed burst and his size , do you think Falcons would be better using him as a FB @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Allowing Quizz to use his quickness to get to the hole and Turners size to catch the a LB or D-Lineman in the backfield . <p> Pat Yasinskas : Not sure about using Turner as FB , but would n't mind seeing Jacquizz get a few more carries . <p> Dylan ( Rock Springs , WY ) : What can the Falcons do to improve their run game ? <p> Pat Yasinskas : Not sure there 's much they can do right now . But it surely will be an offseason priority . <p> CAROLINA PANTHERS <p> Eric ( Raleigh , NC ) : Pat , Is there any chance Jerry Richardson will go after a big fish who is both coach and GM ? He obviously struck out with Ron Rivera going with the guy that has no experience . I am hoping for a proven Head Coach . I would love for it to be Andy Reid . I think in order for Reid to come here he would have to offer the GM role as well . Any chance this could happen ? <p> Pat Yasinskas : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no . He made Seifert coach and GM and that was a disaster . After that , Richardson said he 'd never give one person all the power again . But , hey , he could change his mind . <p> Adam Creed ( Boone ) : I doubt there 's room cap wise , but has there been any thought of Ray Edwards going to the panthers ? / Any word on where he might go ? <p> Pat Yasinskas : First off , Ray Edwards would n't command a big contract right now . Second , Panthers have about $4.5 in cap room for this year , but are over cap for next year . Lastly , in talking to some people with Panthers , I do n't think they 're real high on Edwards . <p> Donneith ( Columbia , SC ) : Do you think that the Panthers new GM could possibly look to replace Cam as out QB ? <p> Pat Yasinskas : No , too much invested in Cam and he still has lots of upside . Whoever is hired as GM will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . <p> NEW ORLEANS SAINTS <p> John ( Mobile ) ( via mobile ) : Pat do you really think Payton is considering leaving for the Dallas job ? Do you see the saints going de or db in the draft ? <p> Pat Yasinskas : I ca n't read his mind . It 's really up to him . But nothing would surprise me . As far as the draft , I 'd go DE first . <p> Richard ( Ann Arbor , MI ) : Since Tracy Porter ' s only playing on a 1-yr contract , could the Saints afford him if Denver decides not to resign him ? Could use the help in the secondary . <p> Pat Yasinskas : Agree they can use help in secondary . But not sure Porter would be the guy for them . There were reasons why they let him go in the first place . <p> TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS <p> Quez ( Muck Bowl , FLA ) : Pat , with Freeman re-establishing himself in the top-10 of NFL QBs , do you think we will resign him before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ money do you think he could get ? ? <p> Pat Yasnskas : I think , at this point , they 'll wait until after the season . Best to avoid distractions . But I think an extension will come shortly after the season . As to how much he 'll get , I do n't think it will be Brees/Manning money , but it will be significant because he 's a guy who 's got tons of upside and seems to be a perfect fit in their offensive system . <p> Will Rogers ( New Port Richey ) : I know Q. Black was n't our best player on defense but he had decent speed . With Adam Heyward replacing him , is it going to affect the way they keep Cam bottled up this week like they did in week one ? <p> Pat Yasinskas : Hayward 's not bad at all . Let 's see how he does Sunday . <p> Piece of history : The Falcons have a chance to be a part of history that would be nice for them , but it would put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Skelton has thrown an interception in each of his past 12 games . Who was the last quarterback to throw an interception in 13 straight games ? Ryan Leaf , according to ESPN Stats &; Information . <p> Numbers game : We 're about to find out if nine really is an unlucky number for the Falcons . Last week , they had a chance to start 9-0 , but lost to New Orleans . On Sunday , they 'll have a chance to run their home winning streak to nine consecutive games . That would be the longest streak since the Falcons won 10 straight at home between the 1997 and ' 98 seasons . <p> Who needs Nicks ? A lot of people thought Tampa Bay 's offensive line would crumble when All-Pro guard Carl Nicks went out with a season-ending injury . Surprisingly , the loss of Nicks does n't seem to be having a negative impact on rookie running back Doug Martin . In the two games since Nicks went out , Martin has averaged 8.3 yards per carry when running up the middle or to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can put some of the blame for this on a battered and struggling offensive line , but Carolina quarterback Cam Newton , who showed a big arm as a rookie last year , has n't had much success throwing downfield this season . Newton has 31 pass attempts of more than 20 yards without a touchdown . That 's the most in the league , by far . Minnesota 's Christian Ponder is next with 16 downfield attempts without a touchdown . <p> Rally cry : The Saints have become just the 10th team since 1966 to start 0-4 and rally to win at least four of their next five games . But their playoff chances remain slim . Of the nine other teams to rally like that after an 0-4 start , only the 1992 San Diego Chargers made it to the playoffs . <p> The Tampa Bay Times has a great story about former Tampa Bay coach Tony Dungy that really wo n't come as a surprise . <p> It 's vintage Dungy . <p> Back in February , he bumped into a car in a church parking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The owner of the car did n't see any damage and told Dungy so . But the coach-turned-broadcaster said he still did n't feel right about it and wanted to make amends . <p> The owner of the car is a teacher at Pride Elementary School , which happens to be just a couple miles down the street from NFC South Blog headquarters . She offered a compromise to Dungy and it played out Thursday . <p> Dungy came to Pride and talked to students as part of the Great American Teach-In . Dungy , who moved back to Tampa after he stopped coaching the Indianapolis Colts , always has been active in the community . Education is something that 's important to him because both his parents were teachers . <p> Time for a quick look at the top Friday morning headlines from around the division : <p> ATLANTA FALCONS <p> Kent Somers writes that offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter is likely to be a candidate for a job as a head coach after the season . That might happen , but Koetter can only help his chances at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game to go with Atlanta 's passing game . <p> Speaking of Atlanta 's running game , the Falcons came into the season saying they planned to limit the number of carries for Michael Turner . The running back said he still is adjusting to that role . He better adjust quickly , because the Falcons already are into the second half of their season . <p> D. Orlando Ledbetter writes that defensive ends Lawrence Sidbury , Cliff Matthews and Jonathan Massaquoi all have a chance at increased playing time after the release of Ray Edwards . Matthews is the guy I 'd keep an eye on . He has the most value on special teams , and that means he 's likely to be active on game days and should get a spot in the rotation at defensive end . <p> CAROLINA PANTHERS <p> Ron Green Jr . has a nice story on how linebacker Thomas Davis has made a successful comeback from his third torn ACL . Davis is believed to be the first NFL player to accomplish that , and that alone should make him a candidate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Peyton Manning and Minnesota running back Adrian Peterson probably have a better shot at the award because they have higher profiles . <p> Although the Panthers named Richard Rodgers as their special teams coach after firing Brian Murphy this week , they 're using a committee approach , and other assistants are now involved with the special teams . <p> NEW ORLEANS SAINTS <p> Mike Triplett writes that Sean Payton probably will take his time in getting a new contract done with the Saints . That would give Payton time to see if the Dallas job , which Triplett says is the only job that might lure him away from the Saints , does come open . If you 're a Saints ' fan , it 's time to start rooting for the Cowboys to go on a playoff run so that coach Jason Garrett keeps his job . <p> Deuce McAllister said he 'll be happy to see receiver Marques Colston break his franchise record for touchdowns scored . The two are currently tied with 55 apiece . McAllister said he has always admired how hard Colston has worked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feature on how fullback Erik Lorig has emerged as an important part of Tampa Bay 's offense . Lorig already has a career-high nine receptions , and has been doing a nice job blocking for Doug Martin . <p> Cornerback Aqib Talib spoke with the Boston-area media for the first time since he was traded from Tampa Bay to New England . Talib would n't talk about his past troubles and said , when he met with Patriots coach Bill Belichick , the focus was only on the present . <p> Now , it 's time to go a little deeper on that . I 've got more detailed results on where the voting stood as of Wednesday night . Let 's run through those results and I 'll tell you which NFC South players are in the top five at their positions . Also , here 's t he link to go vote . <p> I went to check on the ESPN NFL Expert Picks expecting the panel to be unanimous in this week 's games involving NFC South teams . <p> But it turns out that 's the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in its choice of the Atlanta Falcons over the Arizona Cardinals . That makes plenty of sense because the Falcons are very tough at the Georgia Dome and the Cardinals are crumbling after a fast start . <p> But there was a little bit of division among the panelists when it came to the other two NFC South games . <p> Twelve panel members are picking the Tampa Bay Buccaneers over the Carolina Panthers and I 'd make the same prediction . The Bucs suddenly are hot and the Panthers are having a dismal season . But Keyshawn Johnson , who played for both teams , and Adam Schefter picked the Panthers . <p> Schefter also went against conventional wisdom in picking the Oakland Raiders to defeat the New Orleans Saints . He and Chris Mortensen are the only two panelists picking against the Saints . <p> We 've got a bunch of significant injuries around the NFC South , so let 's take a look at the latest news . <p> Carolina Panthers receiver/kick returner Armanti Edwards ( groin ) sat out Thursday 's practice . That could clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the field . Adams began the season as Carolina 's main return man , but lost the job after having problems with fumbles . Captian Munnerlyn has been handling punt returns , but has n't been very productive . If Adams is healthy , the Panthers could put him back in place as their punt returner and either he or David Gettis could return kicks . <p> New Orleans right tackle Zach Strief ( groin ) missed another day of practice and it appears as if Charles Brown will get another start in his place . On the positive side , running back/return man Darren Sproles participated fully in practice . <p> Tampa Bay 's battered offensive line could be taking another hit . Right guard Jamon Meredith did not practice Thursday due to an ankle injury . The Bucs already have had to shuffle their offensive line several times after losing guards Davin Joseph and Carl Nicks to season-ending injuries . Roger Allen is the only backup guard listed on the team 's depth chart and he recently was elevated from the practice squad . But reserve tackle Jeremy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at guard if Meredith is n't able to play Sunday at Carolina . Also , cornerback Eric Wright missed practice , but coach Greg Schiano said it was for personal reasons . There was a FOX Sports report several weeks ago that Wright will face a suspension for violating the NFL 's policy on performance-enhancing substances . When asked if that situation had something to do with Wright 's absence , Schiano simply said the cornerback will play if he 's healthy Sunday . <p> Atlanta receiver Julio Jones ( ankle ) missed a second straight day of practice . Backup receiver Kevin Cone also was out . If Jones ca n't play Sunday , the Falcons likely would start Harry Douglas opposite Roddy White and they 'd have to use Drew Davis and recently-signed Nick Toone as their backup receivers . Linebacker Sean Weatherspoon ( ankle ) also was held out of practice . Coach Mike Smith indicated Wednesday there was a chance Weatherspoon might be cleared to practice Thursday , but it 's starting to look like the Falcons might have to get through another game with Akeem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Although he already has been released , defensive end Ray Edwards still will cost the Atlanta Falcons $4.65 million against the 2013 salary cap . <p> The Falcons are off the hook for the $5.5 million in base salary that Edwards was scheduled to earn next year . But the $4.65 million figure represents the outstanding portions of his pro-rated signing bonus and option bonus and all of that will be accelerated toward the 2013 cap . Edwards had been scheduled to count $7.05 million toward next year 's cap prior to his release . <p> Edwards still will count $3.315 million toward this year 's cap . But that number is down from the $4.55 million he would have cost if he spent the whole season with the Falcons . <p> All totaled , Edwards received $10,764,705.88 from the Falcons

@@5036041 <h> The best ... <p> The best type without budget constraint will be LCD flat screen . <p> LCD or DLP rear projection HDTVs are the cheapest , and the bigger the size is , the larger the price difference . Their picture quality is not as good as the other types , and they are heavier and bulkier , although they have slimmed down quite a bit these days , and if you want to wall mount them , good luck ... : - ) <p> Their light bulb will have to replaced soon or later depending on your usage , so this is a put-off too . <p> Plasma TVs still can not solve the issue of burn-in , although a problem that is a bit exaggerated . If you watch heavily 4:3 pictures , you should be concerned . Their screens are too refective , making them appropriate for darker rooms only , although Panasonic does have new models with special coating to deal with this . They also get quite hot . <p> LCD flat screen HDTVs do n't have any of these problems above , and their picture qualtiy has improved a lot . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Toshiba and even Samsung come close to plasma , if not better . <p> Of course , they cost the most . Although , some value brands such as Vizio and Westinghouse have much lower prices , but their picture quality is not comparable , and their reliability is not conclusive . <p> &gt;&gt; Where to buy Best 46-inch LCD HDTV . This 46-inch JVC LCD HDTV has the most cinematic black levels , according to reviews , delivering a first-rate home-theater experience , with the highest possible resolution of 1080p . Color rendition is very accurate and realistic . Connectivity includes a CableCard slot , and there are lots of features , including a versatile split screen/POP function . According to reviews , performance with all types of standard-definition and high-definition sources ranges from very good to spectacular -- rivaling LCD TVs from Sony BRAVIA , which are more expensive . ( compare prices ) Westinghouse LVM-42w2 ( *est. $1,275 ) <p> &gt;&gt; Where to buy 42-inch LCD HD monitor Reviews say this Westinghouse HD monitor can match more expensive LCD TVs when it comes to image quality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ price that makes it a serious alternative to plasma displays of the same size . While the monitor does not deliver the same rich blacks as plasma TVs , it does a better job than many LCD TVs , and its bright images are a good choice for well-lit rooms . In addition , thanks to its 1080p resolution , it delivers far more HD details than similarly sized 720p plasma displays . However , there are no tuners at all , which means that the monitor is best for those who get all of their programming through a cable box or satellite receiver ( which serves as the tuner ) . ( compare prices ) Sony BRAVIA KDL-40XBR2 ( *est. $2,390 ) <p> &gt;&gt; Where to buy Best 40-inch LCD HDTV . According to reviews , this Sony delivers cinematic black levels only slightly lighter than those of the best plasma TVs . With 1080p resolution , shadow detail and color performance are described in reviews as excellent . Because the picture on the Sony KDL-40XBR2 looks better than most LCD TVs when viewed off center , it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TV has an elegant-looking floating glass frame . Drawbacks include the higher-than-average price , even though features are excellent . ( compare prices ) Syntax-Brillian Olevia 537H ( *est. $800 ) <p> &gt;&gt; Where to buy Best budget 37-inch LCD HDTV While this Syntax-Brillian Olevia LCD TV does not offer the highest 1080p resolution , reviews say that does n't matter very much for TVs smaller than 40 inches . And critics say the Olevia 537H outperforms most other LCD TVs in its size and price class when it comes to image quality . Black levels are better than with many LCD TVs , though not as good as LCD TVs from Sony or JVC . Some say the menu system is confusing to use , and the TV is otherwise feature-light . But reviews say those shortcomings are more than offset by the TV 's value . ( compare prices ) Syntax-Brillian Olevia 532H ( *est. $700 ) <p> &gt;&gt; Where to buy Best budget 32-inch LCD HDTV . The Syntax-Brillian Olevia 532H is the 32-inch version of the larger 37-inch Olevia 537H , which also gets excellent reviews @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1366 x 768 resolution -- not the highest , but still high-def , and it 's feature-light compared to the class leaders . But the Olevia 532H also costs half as much as some Sony or Samsung TVs , making it an excellent value . ( compare prices ) Sony BRAVIA KDL-23S2010 ( *est. $800 ) <p> &gt;&gt; Where to buy 23-inch LCD HDTV . This Sony TV is one of the few currently available small-screen LCD TVs with a digital tuner . That means it wo n't become obsolete when analog broadcasting ends in early 2009 . It is an HDTV with a native resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels . Features are generous for a small-screen TV , but some things , such as picture-in-picture , are missing . Reviews say that the TV does a relatively good job with fast-motion video , and that it excels in displaying video games . However , the Sony TV is expensive for its size . ( compare prices ) <p> V Inc . Vizio P50 ( *est. $1,700 ) V Inc . Vizio P50 &gt;&gt; Where to buy Best value @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cites Vizio plasma TVs as absolutely the best value , and the Vizio P50 gets especially good reviews for its accurate color , good black levels , picture detail and features . Though all experts say the Vizio P50 ca n't equal the superior performance of a Pioneer or Panasonic plasma TV , the Vizio P50 is an excellent budget pick for those who do n't need the best possible picture quality . Experts say the picture will likely need some adjustment out of the box . Critics add that this plasma television actually outperforms many higher-rated TVs in displaying standard definition TV signals . ( compare prices ) Pioneer PDP-5070HD ( *est. $2,600 ) Pioneer PDP-5070HD &gt;&gt; Where to buy Best 50-inch plasma HDTV . Although more expensive than some , reviewers say the Pioneer PDP-5070HD is the best 50-inch plasma TV for those who are picky about image quality . Reviews indicate that the set displays rich , well-saturated colors and great black levels ( though Panasonic 's industrial plasma displays have slightly inkier blacks ) . The Pioneer TV is also packed with features , including dual-tuner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Its 720p resolution is typical for plasma TVs . Some higher resolution 1080p plasma sets are being debuted , but they cost twice as much . The 42-inch PDP-4270HD ( *est. $1,700 ) is also available . ( compare prices ) Pioneer Elite PRO-940HD ( *est. $2,240 ) Pioneer Elite PRO-940HD &gt;&gt; Where to buy Best 42-inch plasma HDTV . The 42-inch PRO-940HD gets the same excellent reviews as other Pioneer plasma HDTVs , but it has one big upgrade -- with its Home Media Gallery interface , it can be integrated into your home network to stream music , video and image from your computer . In reviews , image quality is excellent , with inky blacks and detail . Colors are great out of the box , and reports say that the sound quality is surprisingly robust through the integrated speakers . 50-inch and 60-inch versions are also available . ( compare prices ) V Inc . Vizio VP42 ( *est. $1,000 ) V Inc . Vizio VP42 &gt;&gt; Where to buy Budget 42-inch plasma HDTV . According to reviews , the Vizio VP42 plasma HDTV has a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it wo n't beat the best in a head-to-head image-quality competition , reviews say the black levels and color rendition are good , with good details . The VP42 also has good connectivity and is easy to use . Other features include a versatile PIP/POP function . One downside is that this HDTV is harder to find that others -- it 's a Costco exclusive , though it is also available at the manufacturers ' website. ( compare prices ) Panasonic TH-50PH9UK ( *est. $1,670 ) Panasonic TH-50PH9UK &gt;&gt; Where to buy 50-inch HD-ready plasma monitor . Reviews say this Panasonic industrial plasma display has the most cinematic black levels of any other mainstream plasma display . Since it is a monitor and not a true TV , however , the Panasonic TH-50PH9UK has no speakers , no table stand or wall mount , and it offers minimal connections -- even an HDMI input is an extra-cost option . Because this monitor has no tuners , it is best for those who will use separate speakers and get all of their TV from cable or satellite . Reviews say these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ performance and very low price . ( compare prices ) Pioneer Elite PRO-FHD1 ( *est. $5,000 ) Pioneer Elite PRO-FHD1 &gt;&gt; Where to buy Best 1080p plasma HD monitor . If price is n't an object , critics are simply floored by the image quality of this 50-inch 1080p HD monitor from Pioneer . While this resolution is new in plasma TVs , it 's the plasma TV to get if you want the very highest of high-def . The PRO-FHD1 has lots of picture controls and display modes , but it 's a plasma monitor -- that means it has no turners , no speakers and no included stand . This makes the Pioneer Elite only appropriate for cable and satellite subscribers who want to use separate speakers and do n't mind paying extra for a stand or wall-mount hardware . ( compare prices ) &gt;&gt; Comparison Chart <p> Sony Grand WEGA KDS-60A2020 ( *est. $2,500 ) <p> &gt;&gt; Where to buy 60-inch LCoS HDTV . In reviews , the top-rated Sony KDS-60A2020 widescreen RPTV strikes the best blend of excellent , high-resolution 1080p image quality , features and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rear-projection technology right now : LCoS ( Sony calls their version SXRD ) . Reviews say HD images have terrific detail , good color and deep , rich blacks . Reviewers especially like Sony 's automatic iris adjustment , which varies light output based on content . This brightens the image for outdoor scenes and sports , and it will automatically drop brightness for movies and darker scenes . One significant missing feature is picture-in-picture , but reviews say most people do n't use this feature anyway . ( compare prices ) <h> 4 styles of HDTV <p> Once upon a time , when only analog , tube TVs were around , buying a new set used to be a whole lot less of a nerve-racking experience . Now , there are all sorts of questions . Do you go wide or not ? Is LCD better than plasma ? And what 's the difference between rear-projection LCD , LCoS , and DLP HDTVs ? If all the tech jargon has you confused , do n't worry . Read our guide to the pros and cons of high-tech TVs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you hit your local electronics store . <p> Direct-view ( tube ) TVs Upside : Downside : Forecast : Relatively inexpensive ; can produce deep black levels ; wide viewing angle . Bulky and heavy ; limited screen size ; lower resolution ; usually not PC-compatible . These sets are still going strong , and their low prices will keep them around in smaller screen sizes for years to come . <p> Sony 's 34-inch KD-34XBR960 direct-view tube TV weighs 196 pounds.Direct view is how industry insiders refer to any television that does n't use projection technology . Many of them are the familiar tube TVs you see everywhere--they 're called tubes because the glass forms the business end of a cathode-ray tube ( CRT ) . Direct-view tube TVs can be found in sizes up to 36 inches ( diagonal ) , and as their screen sizes increase , so do their heft and depth . Sony 's 34-inch KD-34XBR960 , for example , tips the scales at nearly 200 pounds , measures 24 inches deep , and requires a minimum of two--and probably three--burly guys to lift it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it does n't pay for companies to make larger tube TVs ; they simply are n't practical . <p> High-end tube TVs can give a great-looking picture . CRTs are still the kings of black level , a term used to describe the quality and the depth of black , the darker the better . Direct-view tube sets look good from any angle , so unlike flat-panel LCDs and rear-projection sets , the picture quality does n't change depending on where you sit . Compared with newer TV technologies , however , direct-view sets often look softer with high-definition material because they ca n't deliver as much detail . Most tubes wo n't accept high-resolution PC sources . Also , tubes suffer from more geometry errors than do flat-panel sets , which can make straight vertical and horizontal lines appear to bend onscreen . <p> New developments Flat vs. curved screens : The traditional curved shape of the glass tube is giving way to completely flat glass . Sony introduced flat tubes first with its Wega televisions , but now , just about every manufacturer sells some kind of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tech , it collects less ambient light from the room and , therefore , helps to reduce glare . But it 's a myth that flat tubes result in straighter lines ; they can have the same geometry problems as their curved counterparts , especially near the corners and the edges of the screen . <p> Digital vs. analog : Many tubes are still entirely analog , meaning that they wo n't work with high-definition tuners or progressive-scan DVD players . An increasing number of direct-view tube TVs , however , can display high-definition sources . These sets still use the tube , an inherently analog display technology ( unlike plasma , LCD , DLP , and the rest ; see the following sections ) , but if they can accept and display high-definition and progressive-scan images , they qualify as honest-to-goodness HDTVs . <p> Wide-screen 16:9 vs. standard-screen 4:3 : For the strongest theatrical impact , the majority of movies and HDTV shows are filmed in the wide-screen format , where the screen is much wider than it is tall . Regular televisions and most standard-definition TV programs use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the width of the screen compared to its height . Newer TVs--especially HDTVs--almost always have screens with a much wider ratio : 16 units of width for every 9 units of height , which translates to a 16:9 aspect ratio . Wide-screen , direct-view TVs cost more than 4:3 models for the same amount of screen real estate , but they 're great if you watch a lot of DVDs or HDTV . <p> Thin tubes : Some TV makers are coming out with so-called thinner tubes that are much shallower than standard tubes of the same size . Samsung 's TX-R3093WH is a good example : its depth measures just 16 inches , which is about 6 inches shallower than a typical 30-inch wide-screen tube TV . While that depth is definitely thinner than usual , it 's certainly not flat . <h> There really is no best yet <p> It is boiling down to opinion , but there are some things to consider : There are other posts with the same question , the black level should be black not grey , a very high contrast ratio is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or picture quality , all are bad for the environment , a glass screen cover is easiest to clean versus lcd , you do n't really care that the programs are still being made for older crt and the resolution is n't as good as a crt yet . Research and more research

@@5036141 <h> Anatomy of Facebook <p> Think back to the last time you were in a crowded airport or bus terminal far from home . Did you consider that the person sitting next to you probably knew a friend of a friend of a friend of yours ? In the 1960s , social psychologist Stanley Milgram 's " small world experiment " famously tested the idea that any two people in the world are separated by only a small number of intermediate connections , arguably the first experimental study to reveal the surprising structure of social networks . <p> With the rise of modern computing , social networks are now being mapped in digital form , giving researchers the ability to study them on a much grander , even global , scale . Continuing this tradition of social network research , Facebook , in collaboration with researchers at the Universit degli Studi di Milano , is today releasing two studies of the Facebook social graph . <p> First , we measured how many friends people have , and found that this distribution differs significantly from previous studies of large-scale social networks . Second , we found that the degrees of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commonly cited six degrees , and has been shrinking over the past three years as Facebook has grown . Finally , we observed that while the entire world is only a few degrees away , a user 's friends are most likely to be of a similar age and come from the same country . <p> In our studies , performed earlier this year , we examined all 721 million active Facebook users ( more than 10% of the global population ) , with 69 billion friendships among them . To date , these are the largest social network studies ever released . <p> How many friends ? <p> An important basic view of any social network is the cumulative degree distribution , which shows the percentage of individuals that have less than a given number of friends . As you can see above , only 10% of people have less than 10 friends , 20% have less than 25 friends , while 50% ( the median ) have over 100 friends . Meanwhile , because the distribution is highly skewed , the average friend count is 190 . An @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the distribution is not nearly as skewed as earlier studies of social networks have suggested . <p> At first glance , the median friend count on Facebook -- 100 -- may seem surprisingly low ; a quick survey of my own friends reveals that they almost all have more than 100 friends . But no , your friends are not atypically social -- a classic paradox regarding social networks dictates that , for most people , the median friend count of their friends is higher than their own friend count . On Facebook , that 's the case for 84% of our users . Why ? Scott Feld wrote about this phenomenon in his 1991 paper Why Your Friends Have More Friends than You Do , showing that the same phenomenon dictates that college students typically find that their classes to be larger than the average class size , and that when sitting on an airplane , it will typically be more crowded than the average occupancy . These effects all arise because for people , classes , and flights to be popular , you must be much more likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if it seems like all your friends are more popular than you : it appears this way to most of us . <p> Four degrees of separation . <p> The idea of ' six degrees of separation ' -- that any two people are on average separated by no more than six intermediate connections -- was first proposed in 1929 in a short story by Hungarian author Frigyes Karinthy , and made popular by the John Guare play and movie , Six Degrees of Separation . The idea was first put to the test by Stanley Milgram in the 1960 's . Milgram selected 296 volunteers and asked them to dispatch a message to a specific individual , a stockholder living in the Boston suburb of Sharon , Massachusetts . The volunteers were told that they could n't send the message directly to the target person ( unless the sender knew them personally ) , but that they should route the message to a personal acquaintance that was more likely than the sender to know the target person . Milgram found that the average number of intermediate persons in these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The experiment showed that not only are there few degrees of separation between any two people , but that individuals can successfully navigate these short paths , even though they have no way of seeing the entire network . <p> While we will never know if it was true in 1929 , the scale and international reach of Facebook allows us to finally perform this study on a global scale . Using state-of-the-art algorithms developed at the Laboratory for Web Algorithmics of the Universit degli Studi di Milano , we were able to approximate the number of hops between all pairs of individuals on Facebook . We found that six degrees actually overstates the number of links between typical pairs of users : While 99.6% of all pairs of users are connected by paths with 5 degrees ( 6 hops ) , 92% are connected by only four degrees ( 5 hops ) . And as Facebook has grown over the years , representing an ever larger fraction of the global population , it has become steadily more connected . The average distance in 2008 was 5.28 hops , while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even the most distant Facebook user in the Siberian tundra or the Peruvian rainforest , a friend of your friend probably knows a friend of their friend . When we limit our analysis to a single country , be it the US , Sweden , Italy , or any other , we find that the world gets even smaller , and most pairs of people are only separated by 3 degrees ( 4 hops ) . It is important to note that while Milgram was motivated by the same question ( how many individuals separate any two people ) , these numbers are not directly comparable ; his subjects only had limited knowledge of the social network , while we have a nearly complete representation of the entire thing . Our measurements essentially describe the shortest possible routes that his subjects could have found . <p> Your friends and you . <p> It 's easy for me to imagine that a path from me to a random person in Siberia goes first to one of my few Russian friends in California , and then hops around the globe to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I can imagine these short paths connecting all pairs of people in the world , this notion stands in sharp contrast to my day-to-day experience . Most of my friends live in the US , and the ones I am closest to live within just a few miles of me . <p> This is what makes social networks somewhat unique : they are both well-connected in the sense that you can reach anyone from anyone else in a relatively short number of hops , but at the same time , they are very locally clustered , with the vast majority of connections spanning a short distance . In our study , we found that 84% of all connections are between users in the same country . But this is n't the only dimension along which people tend to cluster . We also find that people tend to have a similar , albeit typically smaller , number of friends as their neighbors , and tend to be about the same age . Somewhat surprisingly , even for individuals aged 60 , the distribution of their friends ' ages is sharply peaked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ access within the scientific community , the two works are available for download : <p> In these two works , we show how the Facebook social network is at once both global and local . It connects people who are far apart , but also has the dense local structure we see in small communities . We show that , as Facebook has grown over the years , representing an ever larger fraction of the global population , it has become even more connected . In the years to come , we look forward to continuing to illuminate social trends and helping

@@5036241 <h> The Book of Alma the Son of Alma <h> Chapter 30 <p> Korihor , the anti-Christ , ridicules Christ , the Atonement , and the spirit of prophecy -- He teaches that there is no God , no fall of man , no penalty for sin , and no Christ -- Alma testifies that Christ will come and that all things denote there is a God -- Korihor demands a sign and is struck dumb -- The devil had appeared to Korihor as an angel and taught him what to say -- Korihor is trodden down and dies . About 76 -- 74 B.C. <p> 1 Behold , now it came to pass that after the a people of Ammon were established in the land of Jershon , yea , and also after the Lamanites were b driven out of the land , and their dead were buried by the people of the land -- <p> 2 Now their dead were not numbered because of the greatness of their numbers ; neither were the dead of the Nephites numbered -- but it came to pass after they had buried their dead , and also after the days of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( and it was in the sixteenth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi ) there began to be continual peace throughout all the land . <p> 3 Yea , and the people did observe to keep the commandments of the Lord ; and they were strict in observing the a ordinances of God , according to the law of Moses ; for they were taught to b keep the law of Moses until it should be fulfilled . <p> 4 And thus the people did have no disturbance in all the sixteenth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi . <p> 5 And it came to pass that in the commencement of the seventeenth year of the reign of the judges , there was continual peace . <p> 6 But it came to pass in the latter end of the seventeenth year , there came a man into the land of Zarahemla , and he was a Anti -Christ , for he began to preach unto the people b against the prophecies which had been spoken by the prophets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there was no law against a a man ' s b belief ; for it was strictly contrary to the commands of God that there should be a law which should bring men on to unequal grounds . <p> 8 For thus saith the scripture : a Choose ye this day , whom ye will serve . <p> 9 Now if a man desired to serve God , it was his privilege ; or rather , if he believed in God it was his privilege to serve him ; but if he did not believe in him there was no law to punish him . <p> 10 But if he a murdered he was punished unto b death ; and if he c robbed he was also punished ; and if he stole he was also punished ; and if he committed d adultery he was also punished ; yea , for all this wickedness they were punished . <p> 11 For there was a law that men should be judged according to their crimes . Nevertheless , there was no law against a man 's belief ; therefore , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had done ; therefore all men were on a equal grounds . <p> 12 And this a Anti -Christ , whose name was Korihor , ( and the law could have no hold upon him ) began to preach unto the people that there should be b no Christ . And after this manner did he preach , saying : <p> 13 O ye that are bound down under a a foolish and a vain hope , why do ye yoke yourselves with such foolish things ? Why do ye look for a Christ ? For no man can b know of anything which is to come . <p> 14 Behold , these things which ye call prophecies , which ye say are handed down by holy prophets , behold , they are foolish traditions of your fathers . <p> 15 How do ye know of their surety ? Behold , ye can not know of things which ye do not a see ; therefore ye can not know that there shall be a Christ . <p> 16 Ye look forward and say that ye see a remission of your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a a frenzied mind ; and this derangement of your minds comes because of the traditions of your fathers , which lead you away into a belief of things which are not so . <p> 17 And many more such things did he say unto them , telling them that there could be no atonement made for the sins of men , but every man a fared in this life according to the management of the creature ; therefore every man prospered according to his genius , and that every man conquered according to his strength ; and b whatsoever a man did was c no crime . <p> 18 And thus he did preach unto them , leading away the hearts of many , causing them to lift up their heads in their wickedness , yea , leading away many women , and also men , to commit whoredoms -- telling them that when a man was dead , that was the end thereof . <p> 19 Now this man went over to the land of a Jershon also , to preach these things among the people of Ammon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ <p> 20 But behold they were more wise than many of the Nephites ; for they took him , and bound him , and carried him before Ammon , who was a a high priest over that people . <p> 21 And it came to pass that he caused that he should be carried out of the land . And he came over into the land of Gideon , and began to preach unto them also ; and here he did not have much success , for he was taken and bound and carried before the high priest , and also the chief judge over the land . <p> 22 And it came to pass that the high priest said unto him : Why do ye go about perverting the ways of the Lord ? Why do ye teach this people that there shall be no Christ , to interrupt their rejoicings ? Why do ye speak against all the prophecies of the holy prophets ? <p> 23 Now the high priest 's name was Giddonah . And Korihor said unto him : Because I do not teach the foolish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teach this people to bind themselves down under the foolish ordinances and performances which are laid down by ancient priests , to usurp power and authority over them , to keep them in ignorance , that they may not lift up their heads , but be brought down according to thy words . <p> 24 Ye say that this people is a free people . Behold , I say they are in bondage . Ye say that those ancient prophecies are true . Behold , I say that ye do not know that they are true . <p> 25 Ye say that this people is a guilty and a fallen people , because of the transgression of a parent . Behold , I say that a child is not guilty because of its parents . <p> 26 And ye also say that Christ shall come . But behold , I say that ye do not know that there shall be a Christ . And ye say also that he shall be slain for the a sins of the world -- <p> 27 And thus ye lead away this people after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your own desires ; and ye keep them down , even as it were in bondage , that ye may glut yourselves with the labors of their hands , that they durst not look up with boldness , and that they durst not enjoy their rights and privileges . <p> 28 Yea , they durst not make use of that which is their own lest they should offend their priests , who do yoke them according to their desires , and have brought them to believe , by their traditions and their dreams and their whims and their visions and their pretended mysteries , that they should , if they did not do according to their words , offend some unknown being , who they say is God -- a being who a never has been seen or known , who b never was nor ever will be . <p> 29 Now when the high priest and the a chief judge saw the hardness of his heart , yea , when they saw that he would b revile even against God , they would not make any reply to his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; and they delivered him up into the hands of the officers , and sent him to the land of Zarahemla , that he might be brought before Alma , and the chief judge who was governor over all the land . <p> 30 And it came to pass that when he was brought before Alma and the chief judge , he did go on in the same manner as he did in the land of Gideon ; yea , he went on to a blaspheme . <p> 31 And he did rise up in great a swelling words before Alma , and did revile against the b priests and teachers , accusing them of leading away the people after the silly traditions of their fathers , for the sake of glutting on the labors of the people . <p> 32 Now Alma said unto him : Thou knowest that we do not glut ourselves upon the labors of this people ; for behold I have a labored even from the commencement of the reign of the judges until now , with mine b own hands for my support , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the word of God unto my people . <p> 33 And notwithstanding the many labors which I have performed in the church , I have never received so much as even one a senine for my labor ; neither has any of my brethren , save it were in the judgment-seat ; and then we have received only according to law for our time . <p> 34 And now , if we do not receive anything for our labors in the church , what doth it profit us to labor in the church save it were to declare the truth , that we may have rejoicings in the a joy of our brethren ? <p> 35 Then why sayest thou that we preach unto this people to get gain , when thou , of thyself , knowest that we receive no gain ? And now , believest thou that we deceive this people , that a causes such joy in their hearts ? <p> 36 And Korihor answered him , Yea . <p> 37 And then Alma said unto him : Believest thou that there is a God ? <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alma said unto him : Will ye deny again that there is a God , and also deny the Christ ? For behold , I say unto you , I know there is a God , and also that Christ shall come . <p> 40 And now what evidence have ye that there is no a God , or that Christ cometh not ? I say unto you that ye have none , save it be your word only . <p> 41 But , behold , I have all things as a a testimony that these things are true ; and ye also have all things as a testimony unto you that they are true ; and will ye deny them ? Believest thou that these things are true ? <p> 42 Behold , I know that thou a believest , but thou art possessed with a b lying spirit , and ye have put c off the Spirit of God that it may have no place in you ; but the devil has power over you , and he doth carry you about , working devices that he may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Korihor said unto Alma : If thou wilt show me a a sign , that I may be convinced that there is a God , yea , show unto me that he hath power , and then will I be convinced of the truth of thy words . <p> 44 But Alma said unto him : Thou hast had signs enough ; will ye tempt your God ? Will ye say , Show unto me a sign , when ye have the testimony of a all these thy brethren , and also all the holy prophets ? The scriptures are laid before thee , yea , and all things denote there is a God ; yea , even the b earth , and c all things that are upon the face of it , yea , and its d motion , yea , and also all the e planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator . <p> 45 And yet do ye go about , leading away the hearts of this people , testifying unto them there is no God ? And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And he said : Yea , I will deny , except ye shall show me a sign . <p> 46 And now it came to pass that Alma said unto him : Behold , I am grieved because of the hardness of your heart , yea , that ye will still resist the spirit of the truth , that thy soul may be destroyed . <p> 47 But behold , it is a better that thy soul should be b lost than that thou shouldst be the means of bringing many souls down to destruction , by thy lying and by thy flattering words ; therefore if thou shalt deny again , behold God shall smite thee , that thou shalt become dumb , that thou shalt never open thy mouth any more , that thou shalt not deceive this people any more . <p> 48 Now Korihor said unto him : I do not deny the existence of a God , but I do not believe that there is a God ; and I say also , that ye do not know that there is a God ; and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believe . <p> 49 Now Alma said unto him : This will I give unto thee for a sign , that thou shalt be a struck dumb , according to my words ; and I say , that in the name of God , ye shall be struck dumb , that ye shall no more have utterance . <p> 50 Now when Alma had said these words , Korihor was struck dumb , that he could not have utterance , according to the words of Alma . <p> 51 And now when the chief judge saw this , he put forth his hand and wrote unto Korihor , saying : Art thou convinced of the power of God ? In whom did ye desire that Alma should show forth his sign ? Would ye that he should afflict others , to show unto thee a sign ? Behold , he has showed unto you a sign ; and now will ye dispute more ? <p> 52 And Korihor put forth his hand and wrote , saying : I know that I am dumb , for I can not speak ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power of God could bring this upon me ; yea , and I always b knew that there was a God . <p> 53 But behold , the devil hath a deceived me ; for he b appeared unto me in the c form of an angel , and said unto me : Go and reclaim this people , for they have all gone astray after an unknown God . And he said unto me : There is d no God ; yea , and he taught me that which I should say . And I have taught his words ; and I taught them because they were pleasing unto the e carnal mind ; and I taught them , even until I had much success , insomuch that I verily believed that they were true ; and for this cause I withstood the truth , even until I have brought this great f curse upon me . <p> 54 Now when he had said this , he besought that Alma should pray unto God , that the a curse might be taken from him . <p> 55 But Alma @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from thee thou wouldst again lead away the hearts of this people ; therefore , it shall be unto thee even as the Lord will . <p> 56 And it came to pass that the curse was not taken off of Korihor ; but he was a cast out , and went about from house to house begging for his food . <p> 57 Now the knowledge of what had happened unto Korihor was immediately published throughout all the land ; yea , the proclamation was sent forth by the chief judge to all the people in the land , declaring unto those who had believed in the words of Korihor that they must speedily repent , a lest the same judgments would come unto them . <p> 58 And it came to pass that they were all convinced of the wickedness of Korihor ; therefore they were all converted again unto the Lord ; and this put an end to the iniquity after the manner of Korihor . And Korihor did go about from house to house , begging food for his support . <p> 59 And it came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , yea , among a people who had separated themselves from the Nephites and called themselves a Zoramites , being led by a man whose name was Zoram -- and as he went forth amongst them , behold , he was run upon and trodden down , even until he was b dead . <p> 60 And thus we see the end of him who a perverteth the ways of the Lord ; and thus we see that the devil will not b support his children at the last day

@@5036341 <p> The rookie , a fourth round pick for whom the Steelers traded up with Washington , is facing DUI and destruction of property charges in Pittsburgh . He was released by the team in wake of its Monday night game . The Steelers kept him on their roster after he served a two game suspension for his arrest , but he only lasted two weeks before being released . <p> Ta'amu is subject to waivers now , and can be claimed by anyone in the NFL . If he goes unclaimed , he can sign anywhere as a free agent - including the Steelers and its practice squad . <p> Brown could miss the Steelers ' Week 11 game against Baltimore as well , meaning it 's a good bet Gilreath has two weeks in the sun - at least . If the Steelers do want to bring Ta'amu back , it seems like it would be as part of its practice squad as opposed to the active roster . <p> Ta'amu has n't been active in any of the Steelers games , before or after the suspension , and has n't made a positive impression so far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time to develop in the Steelers ' defensive system , but outside of the arrest , the only time Ta'amu 's name appeared in print was in the list of inactive players each week . <p> Considering the need the team had to bring in a fourth receiver , and Ta'amu 's lack of playing time , even without his arrest and suspension , he may have been the player released . Assuming Ta'amu has n't managed to get any more legal trouble ( and his timing could n't have been better for the Steelers if he had , considering the need for a roster spot ) , his release is simply due to a roster move needing to be made . <p> Stay tuned for

@@5036441 <h> A Brief History of the Maine State House <p> W hen Maine separated from Massachusetts and became a state on March 15 , 1820 , Portland became the temporary capitol city . The first State House was a modest two-story Federal style building at the corner of Congress and Myrtle Streets . It served as Maine 's State House until 1832 and was eventually destroyed in the Great Fire of 1866 . <p> Though the temporary capitol of Portland was the largest city in the state many thought a permanent capitol should be more centrally located . A number of cities and towns sought the honor of becoming the state capitol and site of the new State House . The principal aspirants were Portland , Brunswick , Hallowell , Waterville , Belfast , Wiscasset and Augusta . The Legislature finally selected the City of Augusta , and Governor Enoch Lincoln signed the bill establishing Augusta as the official capitol on February 24 , 1827 . <p> A 34 acre site for the Capitol was selected on " Weston Hill " , on the western side of the Kennebec river , by a public buildings commission which was headed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deeded to the State in 1827 by a group of patriotic Augusta owners for a sum of ten dollars . The great New England architect , Charles Bulfinch was enlisted to design plans for the new building . He had also designed the Massachusetts State House and the United States Capitol Building in Washington . <p> For the design of the Maine capitol Bulfinch chose the basic outline of the Massachusetts capitol building but aimed for a Greek Revival simplicity which could be executed well using local granite material . About one hundred and fifty feet in length , including the central portion with columns and cupola and two wings extending north and south , the building 's cornerstone was laid on the 4th of July , 1829 , amid impressive Masonic ceremonies . Granite was hauled from Hallowell to Augusta by oxen and blocks for the second story were hauled up a runway into the building . Construction was completed in January of 1832 , with a final cost of $145,000 , an unheard of figure for that time . Maine boasted one the nation 's most beautiful and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roof and faulty heating system , the latter causing the building to catch fire on more than one occasion . <p> The Maine Legislature held its first session in the new State Capitol on January 4 , 1832 . At that time all of state government was housed in the State House . As state government grew , expansion and remodeling projects became necessary . The interior of the Capitol was remodeled in 1852 and again in 1860 to provide additional room for state departments . In 1890-1891 , a large three-story wing , designed by Boston architect Calvin Spoffard , was added to the rear of the building for a cost of $150,000 . The new wing would accommodate the State Library and provide more office space for departments <p> The city of Portland made repeated attempts over the course of eight decades to regain the honor of being Maine 's capitol , but was ultimately unsuccessful . By 1907 , the debate surrounding a final attempt to move the seat of state government made clear the inadequacy of working space in the Capitol building . <p> Major remodeling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the building . It was enlarged according to designs by G. Henri Desmond , and executed by Charles Hichborn of Augusta . This remodeling necessitated the demolition of almost all the old building save the portico and front and rear walls . The length of the building was doubled to three hundred feet by extending the north and south wings . The low saucer dome of Bulfinch 's design was replaced by the current 150-foot copper-covered one and surmounted by a statue depicting the female figure of Wisdom , designed by sculptor W. Clark Noble of Gardiner . The construction and remodeling costs totaled $350,000 . <p> Construction in the1950 's of the state office building , and completion in 1971 of the Cultural Building , resulted in the removal of many of the agency offices from the State House . House and Senate chambers were refurbished in the mid-1960 's , at a cost of $350,000 , with new carpeting , furniture , heating , lighting , and electronic public address and voting systems . The glass partition separating lobbyists and guests from the House chamber was added at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Soep Associates of Boston , found that much of the State House had lost it 's charm and showed the ravages of time . It recommended major redistributions of space , upgrades to electrical and plumbing systems , and renovations to part of the West wing . The State Museum and State Library moved to the new Cultural Building in 1971 , although the latter 's legal collection remained in the State House as part of the newly-created Maine State Law and Legislative Reference Library . The Governor and his staff moved in to the renovated West wing late in 1972 . The House Chamber was repainted , re-carpeted and had falling ceiling tiles replaced in 1979 . <p> Roof leaks had plagued the main State House and north and south wings since the original construction and renovations of 1910-1911 . Except for needed repairs and general refurbishing , no major physical changes had been made to the building since 1911 . As the State House reached it 's 150-year mark , still dogged by grumblings of poor ventilation , cracked floor tiles , insufficient quarters , poor public access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a new movement to spruce up the Capitol building gained momentum . <p> A 1981 report to the Legislature by the Maine Historic Preservation Commission suggested much needed physical improvements and a consistent , dignified approach to decor throughout the building . The Senate chamber was refurbished in 1984 , partly to accommodate an increase of two members following redistricting changes . In 1985 the long-restricted Senate gallery was strengthened and re-opened to the public . Utility poles around the capitol were removed and electrical wires buried in 1986 . The pockmarked and peeling dome was stripped and repainted in 1988 . The front steps were crumbling and deemed unsafe and closed off in 1991 until a temporary patch job was completed by an inmate crew . <p> In 1991 the possible presence of the building 's original time capsule was discovered by a local sleuth with a metal detector . A rectangular metal object was detected embedded in the cornerstone found beside the fifth step of the original seven-step stairway to the main entrance . Considering the bleak financial picture at the time , a decision was made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or future anniversary . Though there 's no way of knowing what is actually in the cornerstone , a history of Augusta says that a copy of the state Constitution , some currency of the day , publications and a special plate were placed there at the time of dedication . In 1989 , in a ceremony commemorating the building 's 160th anniversary , a stainless steel time capsule was buried near the front wall of the State House . It is to be opened in 2029 . <p> In 1993 officials hired a Massachusetts firm specializing in preservation and rehabilitation of historic buildings to perform a study of the overall " health " of the Capitol building . Multiple deficiencies in the structural capacity of the building were identified , particularly in public areas where large groups of people congregated during legislative sessions . <p> A new phase of renovations to the long-neglected State House and it 's grounds began in the mid-1990 's , with the improvement of the state 's economy . One of the first tasks was the complete reconstruction and renovation of the crumbling granite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had not been repaired since the 1910-1911 renovations . The dome was rewired and illuminated at night once again , after being in darkness since 1987 . The inside of the dome was also restored and visible from inside the State House . <p> By 1996 a master plan for restoring and modernizing the entire building was developed by Bath architects , Weinrich and Burt and implemented by Granger Northern in phases over a span of five years . Changes included improved public and handicapped access , structural reinforcement , health and safety improvements , technological upgrades , and esthetic refurbishing of the building and landscaping . The dismal and leaky underground tunnel connecting the State House with the Cross Office Building was completely rebuilt to include a large skylight , the Klir Beck dioramas and a granite mural , by artist Evan Haynes , of text written in English , French , Passamaquoddy , Penobscot and Abenaki languages . The east-facing granite steps were re-set on a new foundation and

@@5036541 <h> Bill Maher : If I Had A Son I Hope He Would Act Like Trayvon Martin <p> It 's becoming clearer and clearer that no matter what evidence comes out concerning the Trayvon Martin shooting in Sanford , Florida , America 's media will support him . <p> On HBO 's Real Time Friday , host Bill Maher actually said , " I just want to say if I had a son he would not look like Trayvon Martin , but I hope he would act like him " ( video follows with transcript and commentary ) : <p> BILL MAHER : There 's lots of new evidence that was made public this week in the Trayvon Martin case . He did have marijuana in his system , a drug that has never made anyone on planet earth violent . And at the moment that he confronted or was confronted by the wannabe cop loser who was stalking him , turns out he probably did beat the dog s -- t out of that guy . I just want to say if I had a son he would not look like Trayvon Martin , but I hope he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turns out either a judge or a jury decides George Zimmerman did indeed act in self-defense and Martin was the guilty party ? <p> Apparently Maher does n't care about that , for without all the evidence , much like most of the idiots in the media today , he 's decided Zimmerman 's guilty . <p> Exactly how has America " evolved " to a point where folks like Maher have such <p> Noel Sheppard is the Associate Editor of NewsBusters . Click here to follow Noel Sheppard on Twitter . <p> Put the beatdown on a man whose only sin was following you down the sidewalks of a public street . Hopefully your son might wan na check to see if the guy is armed before he attempts to beat him into unconsciousness . <p> Wow , even if he did n't get shot , the son Maher hopes for would be spending a lot of time behind bars . Going around assaulting everyone who you feel has looked at you wrong . Maher is pandering like someone above says , no one hopes for a son like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and just snapped that one time , but Maher ca n't pretend that it is desireable behavior . <p> In the major sities like DC , NYC . LA , Chicago or Boston he would n't have to worry about if they were carrying . Down south here that should be on the mind of every crook . For some reason they are not smart enough to figure that out . Now that Oklahoma has passed open carry one does not have to wonder . They can see for themselves . <p> The gun grabbers are saying that Oklahoma is going back to wild west . The west was n't really that wild . Books , TV and movies have given it that reputation . There were very few true gunfights but a lot of back shooting . Hell Chicago is worst than any frontier town a free state , the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed . <p> Edit : " douche bag , scum , POS , lower than whale sh*t , and every other vile name that is in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a dark alley some night **26;4713;TOOLONG <p> One more Edit : There is a special place in hell for people like him ! ! I hope Maher can have brunch with Mao , Hitler , Stalin , Pol Pot , and every other POS , that ever existed on this planet , serves him right ! ! ! ROT IN HELL YOU POS ! ! ! ! <p> one last : Karma can be a b*tch Bill ! ! ! ! But you 'll get yours in spades ! ! Reap what you sow clown ! ! <p> Bill Maher is obviously perverted without restraint . There is no doubt that he is sexually aroused by the concepts of high profile conservative women being sexually degraded in the worst ways , and saying totally out-of-phase with common sense smack like he did in the video . If it were physical , he would be in jail . <p> This is truly malevolent and HBO should consider ripping up his contract . <p> Tonight in Charlotte NASCAR will run its version of an all star event . The winner will receive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but it 's for a million dollars " when they beat and bang and wreck one another to take the checked flag . There is no sportmanship in that race . <p> That is the same way Obama thinks . He 'll overlook anything because it is for a million bucks a free state , the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed . <p> At nearly 6 ' Trayvon could never look like Maher , however by " disrespecting " other people &; not answering Zimmerman as to what he was doing in the " gated community " and then sneaking up on Zimmerman 's backside and physically attacking him ... no wait ! Maher does n't have the cojones to walk alone at night . Sorry Bill , there is no one as comparatively short in stature , as short in common sense , as short in respectability , as short sighted , as ethically short changed , as morally stumped , ... in short you give short people a bad name . Now go run to Robert Reich and ya 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ headline , " Race Related Hate Crimes Up , Coincide with Obama Presidency " , seemed to confirm what most people who follow the news already knew , that since the election of Barack Hussein Obama , incidents of blacks attacking whites had increased wildly , maybe exponentially . <p> Not so . <p> First of all , it 's difficult to determine numbers since the MSM rarely notes the race of the alleged criminals , a description that could aid in their apprehension . Secondly , much of the media do n't bother to report black racist crimes at all . <p> In any event , the linked article from ABCNews referred to the reaction of " white supremacist groups " to Obama 's presidency , not to the proliferation of black violence . <p> Indeed , ABC never saw fit to mention that proliferation , instead focusing exclusively on the increase in the number of white militias -- from 150 to 1,274 over three years -- who are incensed over " changes in demographics " and resort to violence , while never citing a single instance of that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ " what most people who follow the news already knew " should read , " what most people are oblivious of " since the mainstream media , often with the complicity of law enforcement , has long been engaged in a concerted effort to conceal the extent of black hate crimes . <p> There are various reasons for the MSM 's failure to fulfill their fundamental journalistic responsibilities to the public of reporting news objectively and honestly . <p> Some in the media claim they are striving to avoid stirring up dissension , although they had no problem distorting facts related to the George Zimmerman-Trayvon Martin case and causing nationwide upheavals with their proven misrepresentations . <p> Others claim black on white crime is n't inspired by hatred of Caucasians but by poverty and discrimination which , in turn , somehow inspires blacks to attack whites in droves even though worse poverty and discrimination existed years ago and did n't effect the mayhem we see today . <p> What most of the lamestreamers wo n't admit is that they tailor much of the news to benefit Democrats and , especially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ black people assaulting , robbing , maiming , and murdering white people might awaken Americans to the reality that there is a one-sided race war in progress in America which could negatively impact Obama 's re-election chances . <p> Of course , First Lady Michelle Obama is on record as saying that every negative critique of her husband must incorporate a racist component , an odd opinion in light of Obama 's proclamation of a " post-racial America " , and an opinion that puts a damper on any implied criticism and automatically labels the critic a racist . <p> Lady O 's tactic is a variation on the theory that a great offense trumps any defense . <p> Noted African-American **40;4741;TOOLONG author Thomas Sowell is a keen observer of social trends in the United States . He is also fully cognizant of our race war and often goes on the

@@5036641 <p> Russell Simmons and Stan Lathan , the duo that created the genre-defining comedy show " Def Comedy Jam " and the previous Comedy Central hit " Russell Simmons Presents Stand-Up At El Rey " , have once again joined forces for the stand-up series " Russell Simmons Pres ents The Ruckus " . Each episode features the ever-talented Smoove and new material from a mix of rising stars and long time favorite comics , with beats from DJ Cassidy . As a new added bonus , viewers will also see Smoove at his best

@@5036741 <p> Isaac Stewart is the corporate chef at CineBistro , the movie theatre company that offers a full bar and in-theatre menu . The company has seven locations and with corporate offices in Atlanta 's Town Brookhaven , where Stewart came by way of Oregon via San Francisco and North Carolina . After getting a degree in English , Stewart started selling school buses , a very random industry for which he apparently had a knack , because he moved up the corporate ladder quickly -- and then burned out just as fast . This led him to culinary school in California , which in turn landed him a job at CentraArchy , where he redesigned the menu for Tavern at Phipps , and then as the corporate chef at Fado . From there it was Italy for a Master 's in Fine Dining , and then back to Atlanta , where his current job was waiting for him . Now , he spills on what it 's like to be running not just one kitchen , but many . <p> What does corporate chef mean , exactly ? There are seven Cinebistro locations , and I 'm the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're planning the menus ? I am -- it depends on the location , though . Because in Miami , for example , and in Richmond , Virginia , for example , we 've got very , very seasoned chefs . Guys that I trust that speak the same language at me . I trust them to do a lot of stuff , so they 're working on their menus and kind of driving it that way . For me , that 's how CineBistro works very well too . They have a little bit more of an eye for the local clientele , so the chef in Miami can figure out what the locals want to eat more than I can sometimes . <p> When did you start ? I went to Italy in 2009 and stared here a couple months after that , so early 2010 . <p> What do you do on a day-to-day basis ? I 'm not usually cooking . Sometimes there 's a lot of R &D; and things like that . I also do a lot of the purchasing . I may be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ developing food one day , having conversations with chefs and working on kind of the next stages . We 're a very fluid concept in that we change the core menu twice a year in every location , which does n't sound that big but is actually a pretty big production if you do it right . It 's an effort to be more seasonal . It 's difficult when you 're serving 130 people , so the core menu needs to be quick , but we run specials every weekend and the chefs have a lot of creative say in that . That 's how we keep the food fresh and upscale . It 's got to be delicious . It 's not always easy to make intricate plates and do fine dining things in this kind of template , but we try . <p> That 's what I was going to ask . How is this different than a traditional fine dining experience ? That 's the big thing . Every one of these theatres is a small restaurant . On a Friday or Saturday night , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 100 at 8 , so you ca n't do it like a normal restaurant does . You need to have a lot of labor back there , you need to have a lot of people going the same direction to get that food out . The food is very simple -- put together well , well thought-out , but simple -- so that it can come together quickly . And a normal restaurant is going to see checks stagger , whereas here , in five minutes , you 've got the whole theatre . <p> CineBistro is really focused on quality , chef-driven , upscale food . Why is that important to the movie theatre experience ? That 's what sets CineBistro apart . If you look at other similar concepts ' websites , they 've started to push their branding to be more like us . They want to pretend that they 're a little more upscale . It 's something that sets us apart , and CineBistro becomes a destination . People come from all over to eat here and watch a movie . There 's something @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You do n't get that in movie theatres -- we 're really the only ones who do it to this scale , and it 's important to us . <p> There 's a huge obstacle for other companies to do something like this , because you do need the right people . You need labor , you need talented chefs , you need people who understand food . We 're not going to have a lot of competition any time soon , because it 's not an easy thing to do . <p> What are the best kinds of food to serve ? I think it needs to be protein-driven , center of the plate-driven . It needs to have a couple sides and the protein , whether it 's a New York strip or Tasmanian salmon -- it 's more focused on the ingredients , and I think it has to be if you 're going to do upscale food . Our competition is interesting ; we compete with theatres that show movies and have food , but it 's more like chicken tenders and pizza , but we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be that kind of restaurant-feeling food . We try to source locally in each of our locations . We want the menus to feel like the city that they 're in . <p> Are there foods that you want to stay away from ? Anything that 's hard to eat in the dark ? We do ribs here , and some people complain that those can get messy in a dark theatre , but that 's the only complaint that we really get . Soups , you ca n't really do those . We make things like kimchi , but something we have to think about is that we have such a broad clientele that we ca n't go too pointed with our flavors . A lot of my background is very casual too . The big thing I leared from CentraArchy is making the food fit together back there so it 's easy to get out in large volumes quickly , but also finding food that has a mass appeal and is still delicious . <p> So what 's the perfect movie meal ? One thing that sells across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ salmon with a really nice crust on lemon whipped potatoes with bacon collard greens and rock shrimp in an avocado key lime beurre blanc . There 's also a " popcorn , " that 's fried calamari , popcorn chicken , or rock shrimp battered and fried and served in popcorn boxes with dipping sauces . <p> Do you ever miss being in a traditional restaurant ? Sometimes . You know , the older you get , the more you do n't miss being in the day-to-day grind , but it 's a lot of fun to be in the kitchen and get to be creative . With CineBistro , the creative outlet is still there -- I 'm very heavily involved in seven different fine dining restaurants . Sometimes I collaborate with the chefs and sometimes I 'm heavily dictating what they 're doing , and if I need to work something out , I can come and make it in the kitchen . So that part is still there , but the fast-paced stuff , like cooking on a line , I definitely miss , because it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ? You know , occasionally , you do miss things when you have fifty tickets lined up . Typically the food rolls out in 10 to 14 minutes , but occasionally , you will miss a check and you have to recover it . That 's not any different than any other restaurant . Our service style is a little different in that we do n't course , and all of the food arrives at once , which makes it difficult sometimes to sell a full course meal , but the movie aspect is just as important to the company as the food , so we do n't want the food service to interfere with the presentation . Some people complain , but if you come to see a movie , you do n't want to have to listen to somebody taking an order or collecting payment from the person next to you during the film . <p> Another thing that is a little challenging is refills , because we 're in and out of the theater so quickly . We have full refills on popcorn and sodas , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to come out and get the refill yourself , which people sometimes are n't happy about . <p> You just started brunch . We 're only doing brunch in Atlanta right now . The food is ridiculous ; it 's really good . There 's such a huge difference in quality compared to some of the restaurants nearby . Brunch is also one of the only times that people come and eat out here in the lobby before a show , which is great -- we 'd like for it to become more a meeting and socializing place . <p> We 're also rolling out a new menu . We started a flash-fried sweet rock shrimp in a fiery soy and red chili sauce this fall that 's now making its way to other cities , and soon , rock shrimp mac and cheese , sesame caramel pork confit , sous vide buttermilk fried chicken , spice-grilled lamb chops , short rib and gorgonzola " nachos , " which are house-fried potato chips topped with short rib , and a birthday cake will be available . I think the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . We make all of our desserts from scratch , and they get to kind of run with it . It 's a birthday cake ! It 's a fun celebration cake that I hope people order all the time , not just on their birthdays , because it 's such a cool dessert . <p> Do you have plans for the future ? CineBistro right now is kind of on the cutting edge of this dinner and a movie market . There are people who do it , but not as well as we do , so people are kind of knocking on our door . As a company , we 're primed very well for development , so there 's not really anything that 's off-limits for us . The other thing is that we charge the same price for movie tickets than any theater down the road does , but the seats are way better and it 's typically 21 years or older . You do n't have to eat , either , so

@@5036841 <h> Camden Council approves hiring Ferguson as part of new police plan <p> August 28 , 2012 By Claudia Vargas , Inquirer Staff Writer <p> Camden City Council approved a $100,000 contract Monday with a former state police major it ousted last year . <p> Lanuel J. Ferguson of Hamilton , Mercer County , will be the city 's consultant as it moves forward to disband its own police force and create a metro division under a new Camden County police department . Ferguson is expected to start working in City Hall next week , said city spokesman Robert Corrales . <p> Council decided that if an agreement with the county for police services is not in place by Jan. 31 , Ferguson 's contract would be terminated , signaling that the city is hoping to shake up the force quickly . <p> Story continues below . <p> Mayor Dana L. Redd announced this month that she was developing a state-required layoff plan under which the city 's 270 officers would work their last day by Dec. 31 . Field training for the county force - which , as currently planned , would protect only Camden - could start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ <p> Ferguson will oversee the city 's transition to a county force while " keeping the city 's best interest in mind , " Corrales said . In addition , Ferguson will coordinate and monitor quality-of-life aspects of the city that relate to public safety , such as crossing guards , emergency dispatch , and code enforcement . <p> Redd handpicked Ferguson under a no-bid contract . <p> " We needed a unique set of skills for something like this , " Corrales said , adding that Ferguson was the go-to person . <p> Redd had been trying to get Ferguson to help Camden through its police transition for more than a year . She initially appointed Ferguson as acting police director on July 11 , 2011 . His duties as director would have included representing the city in regionalization meetings . He never got that far , though . <p> City Council rejected Ferguson 's appointment the following day , citing an unneeded layer of bureaucracy and too much money - $100,000 , which is the same amount he will receive as a consultant . <p> Among Ferguson 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who was one of four Council members present at Monday 's special meeting . All voted to accept Ferguson 's contract . <p> Redd 's office has argued that if the county has its own consultant , the city should , too . The $100,000 to pay Ferguson will come from the city 's 2013 fiscal year police budget of $35 million , Corrales said . <p> The county hired Joe Cordero , a New York Police Department veteran and former director in the state Attorney General 's Office specializing in gangs , guns and violent crime , this year to get the regional force up and running . <p> Among his duties is to set up the force 's organizational structure . <p> " When we started seeing the light at the end of the tunnel , we said , ' Let 's do this , ' " Corrales said about getting Ferguson as a consultant . <p> The county also has hired former State Police Capt . Edward J. Fanelle as director of police services for the force , a permanent post . He will be paid

@@5036941 <p> Rep. Todd Akin , R-Mo. , told Mike Huckabee that he will not drop out of the U.S. Senate race as party leadership has requested after his remarks on rape and abortion . <p> " We are going to continue with this race for the U.S. Senate , " Akin told Huckabee on radio today . He reiterated that he misspoke , but then took a shot at the party brass that did n't support him in the primary . <p> " They were with us , and then I said one word in one sentence on one day and everything changed , and now we 're back where we were in the primary , " Akin said . <p> The call for him to resign Akin saying " If it 's a legitimate rape , the female body has ways to try to shut the whole thing down " during a Sunday interview . He released an ad asking for forgiveness , saying that he " used the wrong words in the wrong way . " <p> Akin said that he " noticed a poll " showing that he still has a lead over McCaskill , even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Public

@@5037041 <h> " It Was a Different Life , But It Was a Good Life " <p> " We just made an old lady happy , " my Aunt was in tears in the back seat of the car . <p> " We did ! " My mom was in the passenger seat crying as well . <p> I had not spoken in three hours , a record for me . I was behind the wheel , navigating the car out of the Sister of Charity parking lot in St. Hyacinthe , Canada . " Well , " I said sporting my usual grinchy grin . " I just made three old ladies happy . " <p> Three hours earlier as we climbed the front steps to the convent , I asked my mom and aunt what the proper protocol was . I had never been inside a convent before . I had driven them six hours to see their mother 's sister , a ninety-four year old nun . My mother turned to me with those piercing green eyes she is famous for and said in a very serious tone ( the stern voice of my youth ) : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ done . That was when I took my vow of silence . <p> We met Aunt Rosie in the third floor hallway and after a quick tour of her room , she took my arm and led us to a visiting room where we could all sit and chat . As we walked ahead of the other two ladies , she patted my arm with her free hand and said : I pray for you everyday . Well , that certainly explains a lot about the invisible force that always seems to save my ass at the last-minute . It 's good to have connections . <p> Once in the living room , a member of the staff brought us drinks and cookies , and Aunt Rosie began telling one story after another about her life as a nun -- twenty-one years in Haiti and the remaining fifty-four years in convents throughout New England and Canada . I could n't help but smile and wonder if my storytelling abilities were connected to that side of the family . <p> She had six siblings who all married and had families . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one point and looked at my aunt and shrugged . " It was a different life , " she said . " But it was a good life . " <p> Those words and my silence lingered in the car as we made our way back to the border . I 've felt the weight of the world lately and a ton of doubt and regret about a life I gave up seventeen years ago when I threw my first manuscript in the drawer and said " fuck this ! " What I tend to forget is that the life I 've had has been beautiful . I have the best kid and family . I 've made a wonderful home for us and have the most amazing group of friends a girl could have . Life is good . <p> In that instant I gave up worrying about getting into THAT MFA program , my first choice . I stopped worrying about publishing Lucky Nova . I stopped worrying period . While it may not have been the life I set out to lead , it 's been a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call that I had been accepted into the MFA program . I talk a lot with my students about letting go , perhaps I should start practicing it more myself ! <p> Made me giggle throughout : ) . Loving the clearly well groomed writing style and structure of the post . What I most enjoyed was the knwoledge that you made someone happy . I have had people make me happy " just ' coz " yet it will never beat the feeling we get when we help someone else .

@@5037141 <h> When Was the First Cassette Player Invented ? <p> When Was the First Cassette Player Invented ? <p> A long series of inventions made the audio cassettes possible . A cassette uses magnetic tape that is recorded with analog information for use in playback on a tape deck . " Cassette " comes from a French word meaning " little box . " The modern design features two miniature spools with magnetic plastic tape that is wound around the spools and passes through a reader . Most cassettes use a pair of stereo tracks that enable reversible use . <h> Other People Are Reading <h> History <p> The concept of using magnetic storage to record audio was suggested by Oberlin Smith in 1888 , and invented in 1898 by Vlademar Poulsen . Magnetic tape was developed in 1928 by Fritz Pfleumer , but a compact version was unavailable until much later ( see Resources ) . <h> Time Frame <p> The first cassette player was introduced to the audio market in 1963 by Philips . It hit the European market initially and came to the United States the following year . This was called the Compact Cassette and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see Resources ) . <h> Considerations <p> The majority of the first cassette players were designed as personal recording devices and dictation machines rather than musical devices . It was n't until 1966 that the Mercury Record Company released its first line of 49 titles . <h> Significance <p> Facing pressure from the Sony music division , the Compact Cassette was licensed as a free format , allowing other companies to begin manufacturing cartridge systems that were functional across different brand lines . <h> Effects <p> With the invention of Sony 's Walkman , the 1980s were dominated by cassette players ( see Resources ) . The compact size of the Walkman and other high-fidelity sound devices such as the boom box made vinyl-based LP sales dwindle throughout the decade , until compact

@@5037241 <h> Formats <h> Book Description <p> Publication Date : January 1 , 2005 <p> Ted Baehr is an entertainment industry professional who knows what it takes to make it in Hollywood . Moreover , he is a committed Christian who knows the pressures and opportunities unique to people of faith in this precarious world of show business . So You Want to Be in Pictures ? will show Christians how to use their faith to change the culture of Hollywood and mass media entertainment by using their God-given and God-ordained gifts and talents to make significant creative contributions to the entertainment world . Readers will learn from industry professionals ? the brightest and best people of faith in the entertainment industry ? how to develop their screenwriting , acting , directing , producing , and behind-the-scenes interests to make Hollywood and the world a better place . <p> Ted Baehr is an entertainment industry professional who knows what it takes to make it in Hollywood . Moreover , he is a committed Christian who knows the pressures and opportunities unique to people of faith in this precarious world of show business . So You Want to Be in Pictures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change the culture of Hollywood and mass media entertainment by using their God-given and God-ordained gifts and talents to make significant creative contributions to the entertainment world . Readers will learn from industry professionals ? the brightest and best people of faith in the entertainment industry ? how to develop their screenwriting , acting , directing ,

@@5037341 <h> Resolved Question <h> Ex bf stepping up to the plate now that I 've found someone new ? <p> I was in a relationship with a guy for a year and a half , and he would cancel dates constantly , show up 2 hours late for things , only had me meet his family once and introduced me as a friend ... all sorts of things that led me to believe I was just an " option " to him . My friends introduced me to someone new right after I broke up with my ex bf . The new guy is seriously the most amazing guy I 've ever met . Obviously , I still have some feelings for my ex because we spent so long in a relationship . <p> My ex wanted to make it work , but I told him I 've been introduced to someone new and I really like him . Shortly after , my ex started inviting me to family events , buying me things , paid for my car to get repaired ( without my knowledge- I went to pay and he 'd already taken care of it ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . The new guy has already introduced me to family , bought me a ticket to go visit friends with him in January , and we are incredibly compatable . <p> I want to tell my ex its too late , but I feel so sad for him . He

@@5037441 <h> Ask the Nutrition Expert <p> Have a question about food or nutrition ? Trying to eat a little healthier ? Wondering about the differences between brown and white rice ? There 's no question too small for the American Diabetes Association . <p> Due to the volume of questions we receive , your question may not be answered directly by the dietitian . If she can not respond to your question , we will forward it to the Association 's Center for Information and Community Support where they will be individually answered as soon as possible . <p> You can also contact the Center directly by chatting with us at diabetes.org or calling 1-800-DIABETES ( 1-800-342-2383 ) . Its hours of operation are Monday - Friday , 8:30 AM - 8 PM Eastern Standard Time . <p> I have a food sensitivity for all nuts except peanuts and all berries except strawberries . I am looking for some between-meal snacks that will be good for my prediabetes . Can you give some suggestions outside of my limitations ? <p> Answer <p> Even with your food sensitivities , you still have plenty of snack options . Snacks can help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day . But that means choosing foods wisely . Snack time is a great opportunity to fit in another serving of whole grains , fruits , or vegetables ! These foods are lower in fat and calories compared to most salty snacks and sweets . They will also fill you up and give you the energy you need . <p> Watch portion sizes to make sure you are n't going overboard when snacking . Over-eating will lead to extra calories in your diet , which can contribute to weight gain . So , resist those trips to the vending machine -- plan ahead and pack a healthy snack ! <p> Below are just a few ideas to get you started . You can also check out our snacking page for even more options ! <p> My husband has diabetes . Every morning , we have oatmeal with half of a banana and milk . Is oatmeal okay for him ? <p> Answer <p> Oatmeal is a good , whole grain breakfast choice . We recommend that everyone choose whole grain foods as much as possible over refined grains like white @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more vitamins , minerals , and fiber . So , oatmeal is a good choice , but it does have some carbohydrates . <p> It 's important for people with diabetes to watch their carbohydrate intake . Having too much at once will disrupt blood glucose levels . The breakfast you described consists of several high-carbohydrate foods . So , your husband will need to consider his carbohydrate range at breakfast time and think about what portion sizes of those foods will fit with his meal plan . The following carb counts may be helpful : <p> 1/2 cup of cooked oatmeal has about 15 grams of carbohydrate ( if it is cooked with water , not milk ) <p> 1/2 of a large banana had about 15 grams of carbohydrate <p> 1 cup of milk has about 12 grams of carbohydrate <p> This breakfast above has about 42 grams of carbohydrate . So , if he can have 30-45 grams of carbohydrate at breakfast , these serving sizes would work with his plan . If his limit is more or less , he 'll want to adjust the portion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but occasionally I like to have a sandwich ... what is the best bread ? <p> Answer <p> Navigating the bread aisle at the grocery store can be tricky -- there are so many options ! We suggest choosing one that is a good source of whole grains . A lot of the time , bread is made with refined grains or a refined flour . " Refined " means that part of the grain has been removed , so you miss out on a lot of vitamins , minerals , and fiber . <p> Whole grains include the entire grain kernel and provide all of the nutrients that grains have to offer . Look for bread that is labeled " 100% whole grain " or " 100% whole wheat . " This means that the bread is only made with whole wheat flour . Products that say " contains whole grain " may only contain a small amount of whole wheat flour . <p> You can also see if your bread is a good source of whole grains is by looking at the ingredient list . Ingredients are listed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ingredient on the list makes up the largest proportion of the food . The best breads will list whole wheat flour as the first ingredient and the only flour in the product . Do n't be fooled by terms like wheat flour , enriched wheat flour , multi grain , stone-ground flour , unbleached wheat flour or other similar terms . These are not whole grain flours . <p> Some whole wheat breads are made mostly with whole wheat flour but still have a small amount of refined flours in them . If one or two refined flours are included in the ingredient list but are farther down on the list , the bread is still a good source of whole grains . <p> Remember that bread is a starchy food , so it 's important to count it in your meal plan -- even if you choose a whole grain option . The serving size and amount of carbohydrates can vary a lot from product to product so be sure to check nutrition labels . <p> My doctor wants me to eat small meals every 4 hours , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intolerant ; does that change my options for complex carbohydrates ? <p> Answer <p> There is a growing group of people out there who have a gluten intolerance . When you are gluten-intolerant , you experience uncomfortable symptoms when you eat foods that contain the protein gluten . To avoid these symptoms , it 's necessary to follow a gluten-free diet . <p> Gluten is found in wheat , rye , and barley and any foods made with these grains . As you can imagine , eliminating gluten from your diet can be challenging . There are many foods and food additives that contain gluten or are cross-contaminated with gluten during processing . Many of these foods are things you would never think of like lunch meats , broth , salad dressing , etc . <p> Complex carbs are often referred to as starchy foods . Though you need to avoid gluten , you still have a lot of options . The following is a list of starchy foods that are also gluten-free : <p> You can also choose to buy gluten-free crackers or bread . Just be aware that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their wheat-based counterparts . They may also differ in the amount of carbohydrate grams per serving , which can make a difference when you are carbohydrate counting and meal planning . For example , gluten-free bread can have twice as many carbohydrate grams as whole wheat bread . So , always check labels when you choose to buy these products . <p> How many calories are in a 12-ounce beer and how many in a regular soda ? How much weight can you lose if you stop drinking beverages with calories ? For example , if I drink 3-4 12 ounce sodas per day how much I can lose if I stop ? <p> Answer <p> Both beer and regular soda can add a significant amount of calories to your diet : <p> One 12-ounce can of regular soda has about 150 calories . <p> One 12-ounce Bud Light has about 110 calories . <p> Most regular beers have around 150 calories in 12 ounces , but some craft and specialty beers have significantly more than that . At this time , nutrition labeling is not required on alcoholic beverages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the calories do as well . <p> For many people , cutting out alcohol and/or sugary beverages is helpful for losing weight . If you think about it , the calories can add up fast . Having four cans of regular soda every day amounts to about 600 calories . For some people , that 's 1/3 of the calories they need for an entire day ! <p> When it comes to weight loss , remember that one pound is equal to 3,500 calories . So , if you want to lose 1 pound per week , you would need to cut 500 calories from what you usually eat in a day . So , switching to diet or another zero-calorie drink could be an easy way to get started losing weight . <p> Also , calories from sugary beverages do n't fill us up as much as solid food . We recommend choosing zero calorie drinks as much as possible . Avoid beverages like regular soda , fruit punch , fruit drinks , energy drinks , sweet tea , and other sugary drinks . These will raise blood glucose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . Instead , stick to zero or very low-calorie drinks like water , unsweetened teas , coffee , diet soda , and other low-calorie drinks and drink mixes . <p> For more information about our alcohol guidelines and other tips , visit the Alcohol page . <p> I have type 2 diabetes , and wanted to know how many carbs I can have each day , broken down to number of carbs per meal . <p> Answer <p> This is a very common question among people with diabetes . If you have diabetes , we recommend following a meal plan that will help you meet your diabetes goals . First , you 'll need to work with your healthcare provider to set these goals , which might include losing weight , improving your A1C , lowering your blood pressure and/or lowering cholesterol levels . <p> It sounds like you have n't set up an individualized meal plan yet , so we suggest including about 45-60 grams of carbohydrate per meal to start . If you follow that recommendation , you would be eating a total of about 135-180 grams of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more and some people may need less than the recommendation above , so talk to your healthcare team about setting a plan soon ! <p> We were wondering - can you use coconut palm sugar in place of regular cane sugar ? <p> Answer <p> Coconut palm sugar is a sugar substitute that seems to be gaining popularity . It is made from sap that is extracted from the coconut tree . The taste of pure coconut palm sugar is similar to brown sugar . For cooking purposes , it can usually be used as a substitute for sugar in most baked goods . <p> Manufacturers of coconut palm sugar boast its lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar . Glycemic index ( GI ) is a measure of how a food raises blood glucose ( or blood sugar ) compared to a reference food ( usually glucose or white bread ) . In the United States , we do not do official GI testing . So , GI numbers for the same food can differ depending on your source . <p> GI can also vary from person to person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cooked , and what the food is eaten with . In the case of coconut palm sugar , it is likely to be mixed or prepared with other ingredients that contain carbohydrates if used in baking . <p> It is okay for people with diabetes to use coconut palm sugar as a sweetener , but they should not treat it any differently than regular sugar . It provides just as many calories and carbohydrates : about 15 calories and 4 grams of carbohydrate per teaspoon . So , you still need to account for it when planning meals . <p> Also , note that some coconut palm sugar on the market may be mixed with cane sugar and other ingredients . It is important to check nutrition labels and read the ingredient list on these products . <p> I have been reading that vinegar decreases insulin resistance . Is there any truth to this ? <p> Answer <p> A few smaller studies have explored the effect of vinegar on blood glucose levels in type 1 and type 2 diabetes . Some of the studies have shown positive results , however @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recommend a regular dose of vinegar for the purpose of controlling blood glucose levels . More larger , robust studies are needed before making a recommendation like this . <p> Right now , the best way to control blood glucose levels is by eating well , being physically active and taking any medications and/or insulin as prescribed by your doctor . Space the carbohydrates you eat throughout the day and pay attention to portion sizes . If you are overweight , losing about 10-15 pounds can make it easier to manage your blood glucose . <p> Can someone with diabetes eat white potatoes or should they be avoided ? I 'm finding a lot of conflicting information . <p> Answer <p> All potatoes ( white , red , sweet , etc. ) contain about the same amount of carbohydrate and will raise blood glucose . You can still eat potatoes , but you need to be mindful of portion sizes and count them in your meal plan . <p> Though they contain carbohydrates , potatoes also provide you with many other important nutrients like potassium , fiber , and vitamin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vitamin A ! ) They have no sodium , fat , or cholesterol . To get the maximum amount of fiber from potatoes , make sure you leave the skin on . <p> Keeping track of your carbohydrate intake and setting a maximum amount to eat can help keep your blood glucose levels in your target range . The following portion sizes and carb counts may be helpful when potatoes are on the menu . <p> There are about 15 grams of carbohydrate in : <p> of a large baked potato <p> cup of mashed potatoes <p> cup of boiled potatoes <p> If you use the Plate Method to plan meals , you can fill about of a 9-inch plate with them , and enjoy them as a side dish along with some non-starchy vegetables and a source of lean protein . <p> Many of us like to flavor our potatoes with extra ingredients . When choosing what to add , choose wisely and do n't go overboard ! Some toppings can add a lot of extra calories and saturated fat . Here are some healthier topping ideas : <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tablespoons of low-fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream <p> 1 teaspoon chopped chives or other herbs and spices that you like (

@@5037541 <h> Everything You Want is on the Other Side of Fear <h> Everything You Want is on the Other Side of Fear <p> Most of us are spending way too much time in our comfort zone . We cling to the familiar , the commonplace ; what we already know . <p> Anything of value , anything worth doing that 's going to make a real impact , often brings up fear . If you want to make a dent in the universe , you need to get out of your comfort zone . <p> If you 're not feeling fear in some area of your life , you 're probably not challenging yourself , let alone , going to change the world . <p> After a decade of running my own PR and marketing firm , I founded SheBrand because I want to help other women find their voice and step into their power . <p> Philanthropically , I had been working with underserved women and girls for more than 12 years and loved seeing them have light bulb moments . <p> When I realized that I could use my expertise and experience to actually change lives for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coaching certification to hone my skills and add more tools to my toolbox . <p> Yet almost four years later , I found I could only work with so many women at once . Given the nature of our work together , I discovered that I could best serve about seven or eight women in any given month . <p> How could I fulfill my vision of helping thousands of women if I could only work with a small number ? <p> I saw others scaling their businesses by developing group programs , putting together workshops and taking on speaking engagements . It was certainly the next stage of growth and made perfect sense to me . <p> But I was petrified . Some days , I still am . <p> I 've never been completely comfortable in the spotlight . PR and marketing were always a cinch for me because it 's about promoting someone or something else . I got to use my well-honed people skills and communications strengths and stay right where I was most comfortable : behind the scenes . <p> It was easy for me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to me , or to the women I wanted to serve . <p> The SheBrand community has been asking me to offer a group program for a couple of years now . But I have shied away from it -- found excuses not to move forward -- for fear of putting my voice out there in a bigger way . Fear of it not being well-received , or God forbid , not perfect . <p> The irony is not lost on me that one of the things I help my clients do best -- connect to their voice and step into their power as entrepreneurs -- is something that I myself struggle with . <p> One of my business coaches and collaborators calls it kryptonite . It 's the thing that happens to be one of your superpowers in working with others , but it 's also a great personal challenge . <p> There 's an old saying , " We teach what we ourselves most need to learn . " I would add that we often hide from those things that are our greatest opportunities for growth . <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do something , even though , if you were to really tap into your intuition , you knew it was the exact thing you should be doing to take you to the next level ? <p> There 's a reason that certain things or certain situations make us uncomfortable . We often retreat from the things that scare us the most . <p> And why do they scare Williamson once wrote , " It is our light , not our darkness , that most frightens us . " We all carry a certain amount of insecurity and self-doubt , and those fearful thoughts tend to rear their ugly heads when we 're about to embark on anything new . <p> Anyone who tells you that they 've never had a thought like , " Who am I to be doing this , " or " I 'm just not good enough , " is lying through their pearly-white veneers . <p> You 'll never completely get over fear . A shift in perception would be to consider it your friend . The way I look at it now is if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a positive signal that I need to get to the other side of something . <p> It 's all about using a muscle that you have n't used before . Once you start , it strengthens and the fear subsides . <p> As you build your confidence at trying new things , it actually becomes easier to do them . It does n't mean that the fear completely goes away , it just means that you become more adept at managing it . <p> The real secret is not to eliminate fear , but to make peace with it . In other words , you have to learn how to amicably cohabitate with the enemy . <p> These feelings are nothing more than a signal that you 're about to learn , grow and step out of your comfort zone . It also means you 're about to make a creative contribution to the world . And what a loss it would be for us if you decide to recoil , fearful of what we might see if you give us what you 've got . <p> Fear comes as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lessons and can get past your own resistance , you could make a dent in the universe and get exactly what you want , while making a difference in the lives of others along the way . <p> For me , I 'm happy to report that my first group program , The Awesome Brand , starts on June 18th . <p> Am I feeling fear ? Hell , yeah . <p> Will I push through to the other side ? You betcha . <p> ********** <p> Liz Dennery Sanders is a brand and creative strategist , personal development coach and the founder of SheBrand.com , a global online business dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs build their confidence , their brands and their bank accounts . As the past Chair of the Los Angeles Board of Directors for Step Up Women 's Network and a founding member of the organization 's Luminary Circle , Liz pens the monthly column , " Step Up To Success , " for Step Up 's national newsletter . Connect

@@5037641 <h> About the blogger <p> Here 's the latest celebrity gossip and news about actors on drugs , pop stars having babies , Hollywood stars getting married and celebrity deaths . Compiled by jack-of-all-trades Joshua Gillin and the folks at tbt* , Tampa Bay 's free daily newspaper , it pokes fun at celebrity gossip and those who worship it . And do n't forget the amazing

@@5037741 <h> element <p> a component or constituent of a whole or one of the parts into which a whole may be resolved by analysis : Bricks and mortar are elements of every masonry wall . <p> 2 . <p> Chemistry . one of a class of substances that can not be separated into simpler substances by chemical means . See also chart under periodic table . <p> 3 . <p> a natural habitat , sphere of activity , environment , etc. : to be in one 's element ; Water is the element of fish . <p> 4 . <p> elements , <p> a . <p> atmospheric agencies or forces ; weather : a ruddy complexion from exposure to the elements . <p> b . <p> the rudimentary principles of an art , science , etc. : the elements of grammar . <p> c . <p> the bread and wine of the Eucharistic service . <p> 5 . <p> any group of people singled out within a larger group by identifiable behavior patterns , common interests , ethnic similarities , etc. : He worried that the protest rally would attract the radical element . <p> Origin : 1250 -- @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ elementum one of the four elements , letter of the alphabet , first principle , rudiment <p> Related forms <p> interelement , adjective , noun <p> subelement , noun <p> Synonyms Element , component , constituent , ingredient refer to units that are parts of whole or complete substances , systems , compounds , or mixtures . Element denotes a fundamental , ultimate part : the basic elements of matter ; resolve the problem into its elements . Component and constituent refer to a part that goes into the making of a complete system or compound . Component often refers to one of a number of parts : a new component for the stereo system . Constituent suggests a necessary part of the whole : The constituents of a molecule of water are two atoms of hydrogen and one of oxygen . Ingredient is most frequently used in nonscientific contexts : the ingredients of a cake ; the ingredients of a successful marriage . <p> 00:10 <p> Element is always a great word to know . <p> So is lye . Does it mean : <p> So is alum . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it mean : <p> with all water removed , especially water of crystallization <p> a highly concentrated , aqueous solution of potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide , or any solution resulting from leaching or percolation <p> a double sulfate analogous to potassium alum , as aluminum ammonium sulfate , with the formula R2SO4 ? X2(SO4)3 ? 24H2O , where R is alkali metal or ammonium <p> a mixture composed of different substances or the same substance in different phases , such as solid ice and liquid water <p> any of a class of chemical compounds having the general formula ROH , where R represents an alkyl group and ? OH a hydroxyl group <p> noting compounds that readily decompose or change into other compounds <p> A substance that can not be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means . An element is composed of atoms that have the same atomic number , that is , each atom has the same number of protons in its nucleus as all other atoms of that element . Today 115 elements are known , of which 92 are known to occur in nature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accelerators . Eighty-one of the elements have isotopes that are stable . The others , including technetium , promethium , and those with atomic numbers higher than 83 , are radioactive . See Periodic Table . <p> Mathematics A member of a set . <p> Our Living Language : When Russian chemist Dmitri Mendeleev devised the Periodic Table in 1869 , there were 63 known elements . Mendeleev classified the known elements by atomic weight , and arranged a table listing them with vertical rows corresponding to shared chemical characteristics . Gaps in the table suggested the possibility of elements not yet discovered , and indeed elements were later discovered , or in some cases , artificially created , that filled the gaps and had the expected chemical properties . The striking correlation between the atomic weight of an element and its chemical properties was later explained by quantum mechanical theories of the atom . The weight of an atom of any given element depends on the number of protons ( and neutrons ) in its nucleus , but the number of protons also determines the number and arrangement of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these outer shells of electrons that largely determine the element 's chemical properties . Currently , 115 distinct elements are known . <h> element definition <p> In chemistry , any material ( such as carbon , hydrogen , iron , or oxygen ) that can not be broken down into more fundamental substances . Each chemical element has a specific type of atom , and chemical compounds are created when atoms of different elements are bound together into molecules . There are 119 chemical elements whose discovery has been claimed ; 92 occur in nature , and the rest have been produced in laboratories . <h> element definition <p> 1 . One of the items of data in an array . 2 . One kind of node in an SGML , HTML , or XML document tree . An SGML element is typically represented by a start tag ( " <p> " ) and an end tag ( " <p> " ) . In some SGML implementations , some tags are omissible , as with " " in HTML . The start tag can contain attributes ( " <p> " @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for that element . Both the start tag and end tag for an element typically contain the " tag name " ( also called the " GI " or generic identifier ) for that element . In XML , an element is always represented either by an explicit start tag and end tag , or by an empty element tag ( " " ) . Other kinds of SGML node are : a section of character data ( " foo " ) , a comment ( " " ) , a markup declaration ( " " ) , or a

@@5037841 <p> You -- that there was kind of a Romney premium that had been -- in this market that is the the idea in the last couple weeks of the campaign Romney was gon na win and therefore . <p> Tax rates would n't go up and everything it . <p> Is that premium that going to be sold out of the market . <p> I look at an amalgam of this in other words I looked back since Republicans started gaining steam you know and -- Romney himself sort of gaining steam in the polls . <p> I look at the correlation between that and -- the market was doing it and for me . <p> You know I I saw at . <p> At least four to 5% of sort of built in Romney -- if you will . <p> You know or or I should say Republican flop and and that 's a good thing -- as we had to repeal but repeal Dodd-Frank and other beneficial . <p> Pieces to happen with the markets -- bottom line is yes I think that 's coming out . <p> I think Larry hit on the head earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ uncertainties to deal with not only were not gon na get the benefits of perhaps a Dodd-Frank reversed or some other -- tax breaks for corporations we might get tax increases on cap gains dividends . <p> And you know what I 'll I 'll take you let I think that we do see at least -- 4% draw down its all about probability . <p> And I think it probably does n't make -- taxation but something is going to come of the fiscal cliff . <p> -- have to -- has got to be compromised and the compromise is going to include taking something away . <p> From Wall Street I do n't know what that 's gon na be but that 's that 's sort of my -- my basic -- you will . <p> So Robert turning do you actor Jerry -- call for a potential three to 4% selloff in this market . <p> While you 're not bullish you do believe that may be in the short term things are bit . <p> Over sold after this that big selloff last week and maybe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I -- for the most part I agree with -- point I think a lot of the premium that was built in there -- the hope . <p> That Romney was gon na get -- not there has come out of the market and I think you 've seen that . <p> That being said I would not jump in here in by the index is a whole . <p> But I do think there are some stories there that are being sold off because of the impending . <p> Capital gains hikes that are coming up in January that I think he could step into -- right now . <p> Companies like apple in companies like Disney right now . <p> I think if you have a -- those to you out performers coming into this -- this time a year this is a great opportunity for investors looking to take on new position there . <p> But Robert let me just follow -- on that if I -- in particular with -- it just seems that this -- has n't -- been -- out of apple is -- @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further . <p> I 'll absolutely anything 's conceivable but I think if you just look at on -- forward earnings basis and some of the opportunity that they have the tap into the emerging market consumer . <p> Long term -- I do n't even think they 've scratched the surface . <p> Right now you 're buying a best in breed stock trading at less than a market multiple . <p> If you 're looking for -- one to two week trade now might not be the time to get and apple but if you 're a longer term investor looking out a year -- I think it 's pretty good entry point . <p> Our rates a -- I know how it . <p> Works when you 're trader you 've got to do something to make money so . <p> Where do you see opportunity you put your money to work right now even though you are calling for -- fraction overall market . <p> Well again there are bits of their orbits of the market we can move to and you know where it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -- the dividend players . <p> And I think the big bet if you were thinking about going into election was our . <p> What 's gon na do well -- one places retail and I 'm looking at a couple -- like target they report earnings on Thursday and by the way . <p> On Thursday we get Wal-Mart target and Sears . <p> -- none of these companies are actually counted in the retail sales because if we get from the government . <p> So on Thursday -- a sneak peek into what 's really happening there in retail and I think right now consumer confidence aside . <p> Personal spending is up personal savings is down which tells me consumers are happy . <p> -- How might that affect your play for commodities . <p> That 's everything and -- say what in the near term -- see deflation actually being part of what 's happening here IC . <p> Some commodities prices you look at corn you look -- I think there 's continue to move lower and I think that 's good for consumers right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ services down it 's gon na help us in the near term but all the printing of money . <p> All that 's going to be that 's gon na be -- you know a year to year and a half from now I think right now . <p> Deflation let 's make sure the CPI PP numbers are not going to be hot which I do n't think -- will be and I do think that some of those retailers some specific stocks . <p> Can rally here you just got ta be careful when all the looting of certain . <p> These unbelievable to see corn still sitting pretty about seven box up -- so -- unbelievable as far as history 's -- there is filler Robert now is your turn as the money . <p> Where should you put your money to work you 're saying -- here at home it 's . <p> Outside the US . <p> Yeah absolutely you know I mentioned a couple stocks Disney and apple but there 's no reason to kind of pick through the rubble . <p> You know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are pretty much fairly priced and you look at the US as a whole new we 're looking to eke out to two and a half percent GDP . <p> If you look at emerging markets though for the last year year and a half -- significantly . <p> Underperformed the S &P; 500 . <p> Valuations there are cheaper than the S &P; 500 . <p> And if you look at a place like India I think that 's an investor 's dream he got the median age over their 25 . <p> Compared to thirty side of the 38 for the US you 've got growth rates GDP coming in around 7% over there . <p> You 've got an emerging middle class going from a hundred million to 600 million by 20/20 five . <p> You look at companies like -- they just invest in 2000000002 billion dollars in the united spirits over there . <p> That 's the consumer that 's you want to tap into you plenty of opportunities for long term growth in the emerging markets and much cheaper multiple that what you 're @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this --

@@5037941 <p> Biology and Marine Biology are large and diverse fields . Questions about these careers often have a broad range of answers . For instance , I 'm often asked whether Marine Biologists SCUBA dive often . Well , that depends on the type of research they are conducting . If a scientist is studying populations of fish around a coral reef , then she/he would probably dive frequently . If the scientist were examining the chemical properties of a certain toxin , then he/she might spend a lot of time in a laboratory . <h> Q : What classes should you take to become a marine biologist ? <p> A : Of course , lots of Biology ; but you will also need a basic understanding of science in general ( e.g. Chemistry and Physics ) and mathematics ( at least up to Calculus ) . Computer , technical/electrical , and typing skills would also be helpful . <h> Q : What special attributes are necessary to be a successful scientist ? <p> A : You have to be a curious and independent thinker . A scientist does not accept a conclusion until he/she has enough evidence to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be clever and creative so that she/he can dream up experiments to answer her/his questions . Additionally , a scientist must be a " go-getter . " If scientists conduct their own research , they can not wait around passively for somebody to tell them what to do . They have to take initiative . <h> Q : How much do marine biologists earn ? <p> A : I was paid $12,500/yr to attend graduate school . Once I completed my Ph.D. , I expected about $25,000/yr as an entry level pay . According to the Occupational Handbook , the average biologist makes about $31,300/yr . Most biologists with Ph.D.s ( who often become professors at universities ) make $40-50,000/yr . <h> Q : What are some good undergraduate schools for Marine Biology ? <p> A : There are many excellent schools for biology in the United States and other countries . Look through this list at marinecareers.net . I feel that the most important primer for a career in Marine Biology is to get as much research experience as is possible . It is important for you to attend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ " in Marine Biology so that you can volunteer to work with prominent scientists . <h> Q : What is the average number of hours per workday ? <p> A : As an academically employed researcher , the hours are highly variable . Research science is more of a lifestyle than a job . Researchers have certain goals that they would like to reach by certain dates , but most do not have specific hours which they must work . Some work from 9 to 5 . Most spend a few late nights or weekend days in the lab each week . The scientists I know work about 40-50 hours . Of course , the hours are longer when one is just starting out ( e.g. graduate school ) . <h> Q : How many years in college are needed to become a Marine Biologist ? <p> A : Lots . If you want to be a research scientist and direct YOUR OWN research , a Ph.D . is almost required . I hated school when I was younger , but now I enjoy it . I would strongly suggest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until your junior year of college . A lot can happen between now and then , and you may be a very different person . <h> Q : Does being a Marine Biologist include being a teacher also ? <p> * A : If you work for an academic institution , you will probably be required to teach . Some institutions want their scientists to concentrate on research and require very little teaching ( one class per year ) . Others would like a reputation as a teaching institution and ask their scientists to do mostly teaching . There may be some which require no research . I believe that both research AND teaching are necessary fuel for a good scientist . <p> Now for the tricky part ... If you have assimilated what I 've told you about being a good research scientist , then you will not accept my advice without scrutiny . These are the opinions of only one scientist . Do your own research . <p> As a final word of advice , I saw a sign the other day which read : There are three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who make things happen 2 . Those who watch things happen 3 . Those who wonder what happened . Join the first group , if you are not already a member . Treat your

@@5038041 <p> The feeling most associated with the new federal transportation , MAP-21 , is disappointment -- and with good reason . It is a highway-focused bill . Dedicated funding to bicycling and walking projects was cut and it will be a fight to get what 's left spent in states across the country . <p> But this disappointment overshadows another truth : it could have been much worse . <p> In fact , we bicyclists won a number of impressive victories in the long struggle for a new transportation bill . Like every other stakeholder in the federal bill -- except , perhaps , highway safety people -- we were playing defense throughout the entirety of the policy debate . Those who responded to action alerts ( THANK YOU ! ) know that we dodged several bullets aimed directly at bicycling and walking funding . <p> When Senators Coburn , McCain and Paul introduced an amendment to restrict Transportation Enhancements last fall , we beat back the attack . When the House proposed a disastrous transportation bill that completely eliminated biking and walking programs , we successfully protested it . When the House 's initial counteroffer to the Senate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our voices helped protect the Cardin-Cochran agreement . Chapters and books could be written about the challenges we overcame . <p> And yet , with the outspoken support of people who walk and ride bikes all over the country , we stood strong . Here 's one example : HR 7 , the bill that came out of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee , completely eliminated SRTS and cut all funding to Transportation Enhancements along with federal funding for transit . Despite being a priority of House leadership the bill never even got a vote on the House floor thanks to the " Kill the Bill " campaign supported by biking , walking and transit supporters . <p> Nobody has been much in the mood to celebrate this , but the fact that " Transportation Alternatives " exists in the bill is a massive accomplishment . This is not to say this is a good bill for people on bikes . This is not a thank you to Congress . It 's just a fact : because League members , members of our America Bikes coalition partners , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and countless bicyclists spoke up , bicycling and walking projects still have a chance to compete for federal transportation dollars . <p> Bicyclists convinced the Senate to include a bi-partisan amendment known as Cardin-Cochran into their bill . People on the Hill told us that they had never seen such a powerful grassroots push for a relatively obscure amendment before . It is one thing to push for a law , but you all made your voices heard on a small but important amendment that makes it more likely that communities will building bicycling facilities . We 'll talk more about the particulars of this feature of the law -- and the ways it changed in the final law -- in the coming days and weeks . <p> We also had some important saves at the very last minute . We had been hearing pessimistic rumors about what was in the final bill , written behind closed doors . The right for metro areas to make funding decisions ( " sub-allocation " ) was gone . New , expensive activities like carpools and van pool were eligible for Transportation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( section 1404 ) was eliminated . We had good reason to take this seriously , and we asked Barbara Boxer to stand up for people on bikes . We did n't get everything we wanted . Far from it . But we successfully petitioned to remove a number of terrible policies from the final bill . That 's the power of bicyclists . <p> If some people in Congress had their way , bicycling and walking projects would not even be eligible for federal transportation funds . Thanks to everything that bicyclists have done over the past three years , we do n't live in a country without biking and walking funds . <p> As Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood recently said , now it 's our job to work at the local and state level to make sure that our communities benefit from federal funding opportunities for biking and walking projects : <h> Darren Flusche League Policy Director <p> Flusche joined the League in April 2009 and has a B.A. in history from Syracuse University and a Masters of Public Administration with a concentration in public policy analysis from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday , July 24th , 2012

@@5038141 <h> Rate this : <h> Like this : <h> Published <p> June 20 , 2012 <p> Dee Teal is a freelance front end developer who , while born in NZ has been based out of Sydney for the last 13 years . This talk was given at WordCampNZ on Saturday April 21st ,

@@5038241 <p> Congratulations . Instead of an answer , you just got the Shrug of God . <p> Before you get angry at them for being evasive , remember that they may have a reason for their ambiguity . Maybe : <p> It 's an ongoing series , and the question will be answered in an upcoming episode . <p> It 's an ongoing series , and while there are no immediate plans to answer the question in an upcoming episode , the author wants to leave their options open for addressing it at some point in the future . <p> The series is n't running at the moment , but could be continued or spun off from in the future , and the author wants to leave their options open . <p> The possible answers to the question have sparked much debate amongst the fandom , and the author realizes that coming down on either side will provoke a backlash . <p> The question is about some detail completely tangential to the story , which the author had never considered . Sure , it would be cool if the author would just make up answers on the spot to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but you can hardly blame the author who does n't . <p> Not to be confused with Flip Flop of God , where the author has a definite answer which has changed over time . <p> Contrast with the Hand Wave , and " A Wizard Did It " , which are given in response to questions about Plot Holes or the workings of a story 's Phlebotinum . In contrast , the Shrug Of God is given in response to more mundane questions : questions that should have a simple , straightforward answer . Do n't mistake it with Sure , Why Not ? which , while it may come with a shrug from the creator , is quite different . <p> In other words , if the question is " How does this work ? " and the answer is " Beats me , " then it 's a Hand Wave . If the question is " What happened ? " and the answer is " Beats me " , it 's the Shrug Of God . If the answer is " Magic " then changed later on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Examples : <p> open/close all folders <p> Anime &; Manga <p> When asked if Spike of Cowboy Bebop actually died , Shinichiro Watanabe said he did n't know and jokingly said there could be a sequel . It 's anyone 's guess whether it 's for the fourth , fifth , or both reasons . <p> By contrast , Watanabe has also answered questions asked by those who seemed to assume Spike must be dead with something to the effect of " Did you see him die ? I did n't , he seemed like he was seriously lacking some sleep . " <p> The mantra " I do n't know . Fan Wank something " ( pictured above ) tends to pop up along with a picture of Anno , whenever the fandom discuss the more ambiguous parts of the series . <p> In the interviews for Death Note How to Read 13 , Ohba and Obata left the answers to several questions ( mainly about the ending ) for the reader to decide . <p> " Death Note is about readers coming to their own conclusions . Sorry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which could tell how long that person had to live , but only shinigami understood . It was said there was a complicated math equation , but it was forgotten . <p> Yoshiyuki " ( no longer ) Kill ' em All " Tomino is perhaps the granddaddy of shrugging Gods . On many oft questioned significant story elements , particularly dealing with the endings to his many series , he steadfastly refuses to give answers , as he truly does want the people watching the show to create their own idea of how the story ended . He was n't likely thinking of Fan Fiction , but you still wo n't get straight answers from him as to Amuro and Char 's fate in Char 's Counterattack , or whether Loran Cehack and his eventual partner are in a married kind of love or if it 's a caregiver/friend thing . <p> Yoshitoshi ABe wo n't answer many questions about Haibane Renmei because he wants people to draw their own conclusions and make their own interpretations about the series . <p> Akira Toriyama is particularly bad at this , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disappears and his only explanation was that he forgot about her . <p> The makers of Noir keep very quiet about what the two gunshots at the end mean , so the fans are still in the dark about the important question whether the main characters live or not . <p> Rumiko Takahashi ' s famous reply to being asked ( probably not for the first time that day ) whether or not Ranma could get pregnant in female form : " I do n't think about such things , and neither should you . " <p> In fan circles , a " pregnant Ranma " is something that is better left unanswered . The Other Wiki once had an article on the phrase , but it 's no longer up . Thanks to the magic of the Internet , a snapshot of that page is here . <p> Does n't stop a multitude of fanfics about it , of course . And even more about her getting a period . <p> Given the usual method by which a woman becomes pregnant , #10 comes into play as well . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meant to be happy or sad , director and co-creator Goro Taniguchi 's response was " Decide for yourself . " Though rather than a shrug , this may simply be him acknowledging that everyone has a different opinion and not trying to force his beliefs upon the fanbase . <p> In regards to Lelouch 's apparent death at the end , however , this trope was averted ; in several post-series interview , the staff and cast say he 's really dead . Still , the official website had claimed that Nunnally died during the Tokyo disaster in order to keep her eventual return surprising and Sunrise itself has shown ? that they might well prefer to see fans like us duke it out ... at least until a sequel is made and the question is finally answered once and for all . <p> The exact phrasing was something along the lines of " His ( Lelouch 's ) death was the price he had to pay for a peaceful world . " And , depending on your interpretation , that can still be taken to mean anything . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is infuriatingly bad at this , and unlike the other examples on this page , it 's often unintentional when he flubs his facts in interviews . Just go read one ; half of his responses end in " I think . " <p> Naoko Takeuchi , creator of Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon fame has said this of the inquiry as to who Sailor Cosmos really is : " It 's complicated " . A fan debate has risen from the comment that she is " the ultimate form of Sailor Moon " and her connection to Usagi . <p> The mangaka of Soul Eater has been asked countless times by fans " What is Crona 's gender ? " His answer was basically " Do n't know , do n't care . " <p> Axis Powers Hetalia : When asked what gender New Zealand was , creator Himaruya had the character reply " Which do you think I am ? " The series has made use of gender confusion for running jokes before , so it 's very possible he 's just setting another one up . <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to whether or not Germany is really the Holy Roman Empire . <p> Kotetsu T. Kaburagi 's age appears to be something that will always remain a mystery for Tiger &; Bunny fans . First it was 37 . Then it was somewhere between 32 and 36 . Then 39 . Finally , Ozaki said his age is something that has been left up to the viewers to determine ... <p> In another interview , he has stated he has no idea where the wings came from , being added by the aforementioned InuCurry . He then said in that same interview that additions from the animation staff made it easier for him to write future stories , suggesting that an answer may be coming . <p> Of course , the real answer to the Superboy question is " About six months after the Siegel lawsuit is settled . " <p> And now that both did , that question is settled . <p> Bill Willingham is nigh infamous for this . " Keep reading " should simply be emblazoned across his messageboard . <p> " So let me get this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without offering anything in exchange , I might add ... so you do n't have to buy the issue where it happens ? Dear reader , I 'm not stupid . " <p> Devin Grayson , writer of Nightwing #93 where the title character is implied to have been raped by a female cohort during a Heroic BSOD , evaded the question when asked to confirm what happened beyond it being " nonconsensual " . This is an irritating example , because the script for the issue does directly say that he was being raped . ( This may have something to do with the female cohort in question being suspected by many of being her Author Avatar / Mary Sue . ) <p> Tom Brevoort has been mum about the plot inconsistencies regarding Mockingbird 's return from " the dead " in Secret Invasion . Invasion established that Mockingbird had never really died in the first place , despite the fact that there were at least one or two previous stories that showed her in the afterlife . Brevoort 's stance was that so few people remembered those stories @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the effort to try and reconcile the Plot Holes . <p> When it comes to Star Wars , John Jackson Miller , the writer of the Knights of the Old Republic comics , was practically this trope personified throughout the series ' run , although it was almost always for the first reason . He refused to confirm various future untwists , one of which was confirmed in a reference book before it got anywhere close to being confirmed in the comic itself . And when asked about " the Rohlan/Demagol thing " , namely the theory that " Rohlan " has been Demagol in disguise since issue 14 , he said this : <p> " The Rohlan/Demagol Thing is a fusion jazz act that worked many of the clubs on Mandalore until a dispute over a recording contract broke up the duo . However , their early recordings remain popular and one was recently used as the background music for a series of Holofeed apparel commercials . " <p> The writers of the Disney Ducks Comic Universe seem adamant against revealing anything about the origins of all these kids @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Daisy 's nieces , Goldie 's granddaughter ... ) Since acting like you 're hiding something leads others to believe you have something to hide , fans are left to assume the worst . <p> For the most part , at least - Don Rosa introduced both Donald Duck ' s mother and sister and Scrooge 's parents , and Scrooge has two sisters , a brother and a half-brother making regular appearances . His mother got around . <p> It should be noted that the said brother and half-brother do n't exist in the same continuity as the two sisters . There are different interpretations in the absence of actual canon , even by the current writers . <p> Leaving aside one storyline that everyone seems to be ignoring , The Joker has never had any backstory that was not told by the Joker himself . In The Killing Joke , a backstory is told which initially appears to be definitive , but the Joker later says , " Something like that happened to me . I 'm not quite sure what it was . Sometimes I remember it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have a past , I 'd rather it be multiple choice . " His Pre Crisis backstory of having previously been a gang leader called the Red Hood has mostly been maintained ( Depending on the Writer ) , but the backstory of the man who became the Red Hood has never been independently revealed . <p> After he took over the Archie Comics ' Sonic the Hedgehog comic , Ian Flynn took this attitude with the Word of Gay the previous writer gave for Rotor Walrus , neither confirming nor denying it and eventually calling the whole thing " irrelevant " . <p> In Giant-Sized X-Men , there 's a little blurb on the side of one panel explaining that Scott Summers ' eye beams are kept in check by ruby quartz glasses . How does ruby quartz keep them back ? Well , they 'll tell you when they think of something . <p> The ruby quartz thing was established back in the 60 's . The doctor that examined Cyclops himself basically said " I do n't know why ruby quartz works . It just does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than you do . Those two characters I never named ? I do n't know who they are . Why do you think I never named them ? <p> In the Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha fanfic , MGLN Crisis , Fate 's familiar , Arf sacrifices herself , but is brought back later while struggling to remember much of her life before . The author leaves it open as to whether she came back , or was recreated with her memories intact . <p> The author behind Renegade frequently shrugs when someone in a discussion thread asks for details , like how GDI powerplants work or the yields for prototype ion cannons being developed by other species . He alternates between non-sequiters , Mathematicians Answers , ambiguous images of a smirking David Xanatos , or just outright saying something along the lines of " Really , I do n't know because that 's irrelevant to the story anyway . " <p> The author also mentioned that , since she was born the same year the other died , Clover might be the reincarnation of Wind Whistler , making her story @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the audience if the idea is canon or not . <p> Film <p> The Joker in The Dark Knight tells two entirely different stories as to how he got those scars ( and started to tell a third ) , all of which are probably lies . Christopher Nolan not only did n't comment on them , he said Joker has no backstory at all . This is in keeping with the comics . <p> Anything by David Lynch . Lynch is so adamant about leaving his work open to interpretation that he wo n't even explain it to his actors . So , do n't bother asking them , either . Although , Naomi Watts did give an insightful comment regarding Mulholland Drive : something to the effect that when a person is dreaming , they create every person , event , and object in that dream . This is why Lynch fandom obsesses over details such as room decorations . They know that Lynch , with the detail-orientedness of the painter he is , will have a meaning for every character and object in his characters ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advance his story in place of a traditional plot . <p> Lynch has said that sometimes a fascinating image pops into his mind and he decides to film that , without bothering to figure out first how it might fit the narrative . So he might not even know the meaning of something himself . <p> In response to questions of whether or not the Human Project really existed and if they were able to create a cure to the mass infertility after the ending of Children of Men , the staff merely responded that the answer depended wholly on where you lie on the Sliding Scale of Idealism Versus Cynicism . <p> The Coen Brothers refuse to answer any questions regarding Barton Fink , and never talk about the film on their own . Bringing it up to them , famously , will usually put them in fits of stifled laughter . <p> John Carpenter and Kurt Russell come to the conclusion that some of the issues in The Thing 1982 may be either best left unsolved , or are unsolvable ( and that thinking about some of them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there being no knowable solution ) , during the commentary for the DVD . Carpenter once told a fan that she was supposed to use her imagination and decide an ending for herself . The fan griped , " Oh , I hate that . " <p> Invoked by Clint Eastwood . He had always intended that the mysterious stranger in High Plains Drifter was the murdered sheriff 's brother , but he liked the fan theories about who or what he was so much that he went on to make Pale Rider and deliberately avoid any clues as to the preacher 's true identity . <p> The entire plot of the French film La Moustache is uncertain , according to the scriptwriter / director . Basically , the main question is whether the main character 's reality keeps changing and he 's the only one who remembers the way things used to be , or whether he 's simply insane , with the second question being which scenes are " real " and which are hallucinations . The writer / director has admitted that he did n't even bother @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just had an idea and filmed it . <p> Tim Allen 's character in Galaxy Quest does this for his in-universe TV show . <p> Christopher Nolan has n't had much to say about various interpretations of Inception since its release , but costume designer Jeffrey Kurland and actor Dileep Rao ( Yusuf ) have both weighed in on their views of the ending . Nolan in general does n't comment too directly to fan theories and canon . In fact , he 's admitted that he 's highly amused that people keep constantly asking him questions about the ending even though he has no intention of answering them . <p> In the ending of Memento , Was Teddy lying ? or telling the truth ? . Christopher Nolan has never said either way , and more confusingly , the DVD commentary for the movie actually has three endings , one that says one version is true , another that says another version is true , and a third that does not say either way . <p> Total Recall ( 1990 ) . Are the events in the movie all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it real ? The director has stated that both interpretations of the film fit the facts , and refuses to say which is the truth . <p> In the commentary for Zardoz , John Boorman , who produced , directed and wrote this Mind Screw of a movie , admits he has no clue what 's going on or what he was thinking ( or most likely , ingesting ) at different points . <p> Between The Muppets Take Manhattan and The Muppets The Henson Company/Muppet Studios refused to comment about whether Kermit and Piggy were actually married at the end of Manhattan . The characters commented about it all the time ; they just disagreed . The facts are these : <p> The minister , Reverend Dr Cyril Jenkins , is indeed a real minister . <p> Kermit , when interviewed afterward , always insisted that they were n't really married ; it was just a movie . <p> Piggy , when interviewed afterward , would coyly say that Kermit " preferred to keep their privacy . " <p> So it 's impossible to tell for sure either way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ real minister does n't automatically make the marriage valid , even if Piggy had all the documentation set up . Kermit could challenge the marriage under the grounds of false pretense , and given that he was expecting Gonzo to act as the minister , it would almost certainly be successful . <p> The Muppets strongly implies that the marriage did go through , but they later split up . <p> Literature <p> Daniel Handler , author of A Series of Unfortunate Events , is this trope incarnate . Because he uses a pseudonym ( Lemony Snicket ) , he can pass it off as an excuse not to say anything about his work in public appearances , since Lemony 's the one with the answers and he 's just an " humble representative . " Since the series ended with a Kudzu Plot , many mysteries unsolved and loose ends , it 's particularly jarring . <p> Of the famously ambiguous scene in the Marabar caves in A Passage to India , E.M Forster said , " In the cave it is either a man , or the supernatural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ becomes whatever the answer a different book . And even if I know ! My writing mind is therefore a blur here , i.e , I will it to remain a blur . " <p> When asked whether Lyra and Will from His Dark Materials had become lovers at twelve or thirteen or however old they are , Philip Pullman said something like , " I was n't going to look and neither should anyone else . " Pullman also has no answer as to why a few people in Lyra 's world have daemons that are their own sex , or when exactly the daemon appears - during birth or after . <p> He had a Sure , Why Not ? moment , though , when someone asked if a same-sexed daemon meant the person was gay . He said he 'd never thought of that and it was as good an explanation as any . He also said it could mean second sight or something . <p> The most notorious mystery in the Wheel of Time series is : Who killed Asmodean ? Every time Robert Jordan was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they should have figured it out already ( although this is not clear at all ) . <p> In the end , the true culprit was only explicitly revealed the glossary of Towers of Midnight , the thirteenth book . However , the reveal is implied in dialogue in the book itself . <p> Jordan had a term invented specifically for this use-whenever he was asked a question which he thought would spoiler things , his response would be RAFO ( Read And Find Out ) . " Who killed Asmodean ? " " RAFO . " Thus creating the Memetic Badass known only as RAFO . <p> Brandon Sanderson who was tapped to finish the series has now inherited the expression and uses it when asked about things in his own works . <p> When asked whether the Lord Ruler had used hemalurgy on himself , Brandon Sanderson said he was planning to write more about him in the future and handed out a RAFO card . <p> J. K. Rowling used to do this a great deal before all the Harry Potter books were released , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spoiled the later books , so she had to be very careful with what she said about them , and in some cases , she worried about seemingly innocuous questions where even refusing to reveal the answer could spoil the surprise , e.g. if someone were to ask what Dumbledore 's wand was made of . Fortunately , no one did . <p> The Shrug has also been applied to the entire chapter " King 's Cross " , which , according to Jo , could be interpreted as reality or simply " Reality inside Harry 's head " - but why on Earth should that mean it was not real ? <p> She never did say what that spell was that Dumbledore was trying to cast on Voldemort during their duel that made Voldy 's eyes narrow suspiciously . And now we may very well never find out . <p> That had little to do with the actual spell , but Voldemort was beginning to realize Dumbledore was n't trying to kill him , so Dumbledore must have known something was up . <p> She will also never reveal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they ever an actual couple ? or what on Earth did Aberforth do with that goat . She is waiting for the Development Hell encyclopedia to reveal what exactly Voldemort did to get his rudimentary body before the beginning of Goblet ( this because it horrified her editor when Jo told her ) . <p> Rowling has also gone back and forth with both her opinion over the Harry/Hermione pairing . One minute she says it could 've gone one way or another and the next she states Harry and Hermione are completely incompatible . <p> Of course , it could well be both . It 's not like being completely incompatible necessarily stops people from trying anyway . <p> In The Scarlet Letter , Hawthorne is usually an omniscient narrator , knowing the deeds , words , and innermost thoughts and feelings of many different characters . But at one point , his omniscience falters , and he says that one woman is rumored to be a witch , without confirming whether she is or is n't . <p> Well , if she is n't , she sure does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hester into the forest to dance with The Devil . <p> Even in a mythical Age there must be some enigmas , as there always are . Tom Bombadil is one ( intentionally ) . <p> He did , however , go on record as saying it is not God , even if some evidence pointed to it . ( Indeed , some of his co-religionists argued the " He is " line about Tom was blasphemous for being too similar . ) <p> It is also never revealed whether or not Shelob died of the wounds Sam inflicted on her . <p> This is the entire point of the story The Lady or the Tiger ? by Frank Stockton , as well as its sequel , The Discourager of Hesitancy . Stockton was once at a party where , in an attempt to get a straight answer out of him , the host(s) served two kinds of ice cream : one in the shape of a lady , the other in the shape of a tiger . They asked which he would prefer . Stockton said , " I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler , the murder of Owen Taylor is never explained . When the book was being filmed , the director asked Chandler who killed Taylor ; Chandler said that he did n't know either , so it was left unexplained in the movie as well . <p> Legend suggests that the lack of a solution was an error on Chandler 's part , which he acknowledged in during the above conversation . He just forgot to tie that detail up . <p> Legend may be overstating the case , though : The evidence in the book does wind up pointing in a specific direction , it 's just never pinned down with a definitive proof . <p> George R.R. Martin is very fond of doing this , either because he has n't thought out the details of a particular question , or because it 's related to future events in the series . The most common shrug is the one that comes after any question about Jon Snow 's parentage in A Song of Ice and Fire . <p> One early Discworld book contains a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Disc , because " you ca n't map a sense of humor . " Then he made one anyway . <p> However , the map was supposedly written by the very CMOT Dibbler itself . That alone should raise questions of accuracy . <p> And he 's also said the Disc has alternate pasts . God only knows which one the map is showing . <p> In one of his forewords he said that the book contained no map but readers should feel free to draw one if they wanted to . A reader named Stephen Briggs took him at his word , which is how the various Discworld maps ended up being drawn . In the forwords to the maps Pratchett expresses surprise that places he made up for the sake of a joke and then forgot about fit together so neatly . <p> It should also be mentioned that Pratchett did say continents are found and lost on even the best-run worlds , so it 's possible that the Disc itself changes enough to make maps of it a futile measure at best . The country of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stating that it 's a " brigadoon " , and has wandered off somewhere . <p> Ciaphas Cain -- HERO OF THE IMPERIUM ! -- was originally inspired by the idea of a Flashman Expy . However , the ( in-story ) editor of his memoirs has said that he does n't give himself enough credit . Sandy Mitchell admits to not knowing himself whether Cain deserves more credit than he is prepared to give himself . <p> In the prologue of Margaret Craven 's I Heard An Owl Call My Name , a doctor explains to a bishop that a newly ordained priest is terminally ill : a few active years left , then a few as an invalid . The priest dies during the novel , in an accident . Craven has said she does n't know what he had . <p> Though one of Thackeray 's own illustrations , not included in every edition of the novel , these days , shows Becky hiding behind a curtain , holding what appears to be a bottle of poison . <p> Lois Lowry has refused to explain the Gainax @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thought are that Jonas escapes or that the final vision is a Dying Dream as he freezes to death . The sequels , however , imply that he survives . <p> This was upgraded to Word Of God at author Q &A; of the 2009 National Book Festival in Washington , DC . After asking if anyone had any questions , Lowry added , " Jonas is alive , by the way . You do n't have to ask that one . " <p> Considering that Jonas is alive and an adult in The Giver ' s companion book Messenger this should come as no shock to anyone who 's read all three books . <p> When Gregory Maguire is asked about Glinda and Elphaba 's relationship in Wicked he says that there is ' something going on ' between them , but refuses to state what . <p> Glen Cook , in an interview concerning his series The Instrumentalities of the Night , was asked how certain character and place names should be pronounced . For example , the main character is named Else Tage . Is the final @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ His response was essentially that the reader had his blessing to pronounce all names any way that seemed to the reader to make sense . <p> Victoria Holmes , one of the authors of Warrior Cats , does this a lot . When asked for spoilers , she usually responds , " Do you think I 'll tell you that ? " And when asked about the plot of Yellowfang 's Secret , she replied , " Yellowfang will be in it . She will have a secret . Bad things will happen . " <p> Jim Butcher , author of The Dresden Files and Codex Alera series does book signings and fan events fairly frequently , and often reserves time for a Q &A; section . However , when he is asked a question which he considers to be too spoilerific , he has developed a habit of saying " I 'm not gon na tell you , " in a singsong voice . <p> As the RPG for The Dresden Files is written by the same author as the books , much of the information vis a vis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ considered Word Of God . But since it 's also written in-character by Dresden and a friend of his , some things they just do n't know , and those things are generally marked as " speculation " on their parts that might be true , or might be completely off base . <p> Sisterhood series by Fern Michaels : You can contact FM on her website and ask her questions about her work and offer opinions , but do n't be surprised if you get this response : " To answer your **29;4001;TOOLONG I write what I do because I can . This is fiction . If you do n't like my writing why did you continue to read the series ? Oh , that 's right , because they were entertaining . I rest my case . Characters are human just like the rest of us mortals . Again , this is fiction . I make it a point to never defend my writing because . . . I write fiction . Fiction is make believe , in other words , it 's whatever the author wants to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ write and offer your opinions and your insight . FM " . Well , you have to respect a writer who gives this as a response ! <p> John Green has repeatedly told readers that he ? has no more idea than you do ? what goes on outside the written content of the book . He especially started getting a lot of questions after The Fault In Our Stars , rather humorously , since his characters in the book run into a situation similar to that of Green ? s fans . <p> Jonathan Franzen has stated in interviews that he wants readers to come to their own conclusions regarding Freedom and has refused to answer any questions about his intent with regard to the title , his personal definition of the word , etc . <p> Live Action TV <p> The stinger at the very end of the Doctor Who episode " Last of the Time Lords " has its official Shrug of God . It 's apparently a generic Sequel Hook , no strings attached . Director 's commentary is " It was in , it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ " <p> Ironically , it turned out to be Davies who picked up on the stinger for " The End of Time " ( The Writer 's Tale : The Final Chapter makes it clear there was no long-term plan involved ) . <p> When asked whether the Eighth Doctor 's revelation that he 's half-human on his mother 's side is still valid , Steven Moffat gave a response to the effect of , " Well , he certainly said that , did n't he ? " And as Moffat 's characters often say , " Rule one : The Doctor lies . " <p> Moffat also openly endorses lying to the fans if it helps to keep the mystery of the story . A good percentage of questions levelled at him will be met with vague answers for a variety of reasons . Just the only reason you ca n't give for this is that he 's making it up as he goes . <p> The producer of Life on Mars " encourages " multiple interpretations of the ending . <p> David Chase was very tight-lipped about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was for reason five . He simply could n't have any kind of definitive finality without it being over-analyzed to death . <p> Well , in case enough was n't said , there are occasional things fans want to know that the show runners do n't consider interesting or important . Some they have mentioned in podcasts include how Kelvin got to the island and what happened to Sun 's dog . At other times , they 'll read the fan question , but avoid answering it , then comment on how they dodged the question ( this usually means , " Yes , that 's important , and will be revealed on the show , possibly soon . " ) <p> Reunion was planned such that each episode would take place in one year in the lives of six friends , covering the span from their high school graduation to their 20-year reunion . Tying the series together was the mystery of the murder of one of the friends . Unfortunately ( at least for the show 's few fans ) , it was cancelled with only nine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were pressed in interviews for details on how the show would have played out , they admitted that they had n't decided who the murderer was . <p> In the popular crossover between Star Trek : The Original Series and Star Trek : Deep Space Nine , fans got a massive shrug regarding the discontinuity in Klingon makeup when Mr. Worf , a late series ridge-headed Klingon sits at a bar with early series guys in gold lame and dark makeup ( all the Original Series could afford to create an alien species ) . When asked by his fellow crewmates to explain how Klingons from different time frames could possibly look so different , even floating numerous explanations popular in fanon for decades , Worf merely replies " We do not discuss it with outsiders . " <p> A deleted scene from Battlestar Galactica features Helo confessing to Adama that he was responsible for stopping the humans ' chance to wipe out the Cylons with a virus . Adama 's knowledge or lack thereof is a pretty significant part of the relationship between the two characters , yet Ronald @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scene should be considered to have actually " happened " . <p> Then again , this has been Moore 's general response to just about every extra-canonical theory thrown his way with the lone exception of the " Starbuck 's dad is Daniel/Number Seven " theory . That 's the only thing he 's come out an acknowledged was an outright Ass Pull because the writers had fraked up the Cylon model numbering system and needed to explain their way out of the logic trap . <p> Mostly averted by Babylon 5 creator J. Michael Straczynski , who was among the first TV show producers to consistently interact with fans and answer any of their questions , with the exception of things that would spoil future plot points ; on some occasions , he even flat-out lied to avoid spoilers . This was made possible due to his having planned out in advance not only the entire five year run of the series , but the thousand years before and after that period . However , there are still some plot points he refuses to explain , in case he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A case in point is Delenn 's toast to the disgraced Lennier in the series finale among toasts to the dead ; all we get on the commentary is " That 's a very sad story , and maybe I 'll tell it someday . " <p> According to Morena , Inara was in fact dying of some sort of illness . It seems none of the cast knew what it was or why ( presumably the series was canceled before they could explore that any more ) . <p> The staff writers who maintain the Heroes blog " Behind the Eclipse " do this a lot . One shrug that inspired particular fan rage was when they were asked how Nathan Petrelli came back to life after being pronounced dead in the Season 3 premiere , and the answer was , " He just got lucky . People can survive shootings all the time . It happens . " <p> On Leverage creator John Rogers ' blog , a fan asked if antagonist Sterling joining Interpol meant that he would have an in-universe TV show about his crimefighting with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eccleston " ) . The response : " Consider it canon . " <p> Dan Schneider , the creator of iCarly follows this trope to a fault , with years worth of examples of him following Type 1 , 2 , 4 , 5 , 7 , 11 , 15 and 17 . Mostly because of Shipping . Ask him anything about shipping , it 'll be a miracle if you get a straight answer . <p> In the universe of Warehouse13 , King Arthur did indeed exist and pull a sword from a stone ( using an artifact , of course ) . Artie explicitly says , however , that Merlin and the Knights of the Round Table were legends . When asked about the Holy Grail , however , he refused to comment . <p> Two pricing games on The Price Is Right ( Check Game and Credit Card ) have been " withdrawn " . Although neither game has been played in years , the staff has not officially declared either game retired ? but then again , they 're also making no claims of either game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , both games may or may not be retired . <p> Music <p> Bobbie Gentry has stated she does n't know why Billie Joe McCallister jumped off the Tallahassee bridge , the central mystery of her hit single " Ode to Billie Joe . " <p> Paul Simon 's song " Me and Julio Down By The Schoolyard " contains the line " What your momma saw/it was against the law " . Simon has claimed he has no idea what it was the momma saw , other than it was probably something sexual . <p> The straightest answer to the question " What does " American Pie " mean ? " that anyone has gotten out of Don McLean is " It means I never have to work again . " More seriously , he claims " songwriters should make their statements and move on , maintaining a dignified silence . " and " They ? re beyond analysis . They ? re poetry . " <p> Tom Lehrer has said that the line in " My Home Town " that he " censors " ( " That fellow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kindly Parson Brown/ ... ' I guess I 'd better leave this line out just to be on the safe side ' or ' We 're recording tonight so I 'll have to leave this line out ' /In my home town " ) did not actually exist ; he simply could not think of a line that was funnier than saying that he was n't allowed to say it . Presumably either Parson Brown or the Sunday school teacher ( or both ) did something ... <p> What does WASP 's name stand for ? In one interview , Blackie Lawless responded " We Ai n't Sure , Pal . " One of their early singles was released with the words " We Are Sick People " scratched into the innermost part of the vinyl . Which is true ? We are still pondering ... <p> Ric Ocasek of The Cars once said in an interview about his notoriously cryptic lyrics : " I 'm not going to destroy your dream ... the lyrics mean whatever you want them to mean . And I 'll agree with you . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Power Out ) " , already kind of trippy , ends with the lines " Is it a dream , is it a lie ? I think I 'll let you decide . " <p> " Girl " by Beck has a hard to decipher word in between " My " and " Girl " during the chorus . Is it Summer ? Sun-eyed ? Cyanide ? In the lyric book it says " My ... girl " . <p> A Japanology lecturer on the university of Vienna was asked to translate some J-Pop song lyrics into German for CD-releases in Germany and Austria . Upon asking the Pop-groups in question for an explanation of the intended meaning of the used Te-Form Verbs in the songs ( Te-Form Verbs can take on several meanings based on context ) , he got several Shrugs of God in a row , usually accompanied by something to the effect of " If you say so , that 's probably what it means " . <p> Along the same vein , Gackt refuses to explain what Papa Lapped a Pap Lopped means . His @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what it means . <p> The meaning of the Eagles ' " Hotel California " has remained ambiguous even after multiple band interviews on the subject . At best , the song is usually just said to be about " the 70s . " <p> " People are always asking me what my lyrics mean . Well I say what any decent poet would say if you dared ask him to analyse his work : if you see it , darling , then it 's there . " - Freddie Mercury <p> Sound Horizon is built upon creating elaborate Rock Operas with complicated Jigsaw Puzzle Plots with ridiculous quantities of multi-lingual wordplay and then watching all the fans try to figure out what in the holy hell it means while refusing to explain any of it . The official statement is that Revo does n't want to force one interpretation on the audience when Wild Mass Guessing is half the fun of being in the fandom . The fandom 's stance is that their brainpain amuses him . <p> Despite being the song 's writer , Oasis Noel Gallagher of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about . His words : <p> " I don ? t fucking know . But are you telling me , when you ? ve got 60,000 people singing it , they don ? t know what it means ? It means something different to every one of them . " <p> Newspaper Comics <p> Calvin and Hobbes : What is Hobbes ' true nature ? A magical stuffed animal that comes to life when Calvin is around ? A figment of Calvin 's imagination ? Bill Watterson is n't sure himself . <p> In the Tenth Anniversary Collection , Watterson would only state that Hobbes is a comment on the subjective nature of reality ; Calvin sees him differently from everyone else . <p> This is reportedly the reason Watterson would not allow a stuffed toy Hobbes to be manufactured ( that , and his loathing of merchandising ) . He felt it would answer the question as to whether or not Hobbes was just a stuffed toy . <p> Other interviewers have occasionally tried to trap Watterson with a Gotcha Question highlighting specific instances in the strip in which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or b ) either completely imaginary . For example this one where the interviewer asks how Hobbes could tie Calvin to a chair and then be discovered in that state by his father , who is not ordinarily able to see evidence of Hobbes being " alive . " Watterson simply answered ambiguously that he liked the intellectual tension created by " two versions of reality that do not mix . " <p> In the Tenth Anniversary Collection , Watterson states that " Hamster Huey and the Gooey Kablooie ( like the ' Noodle Incident ' I 've referred to in several strips ) is left to the reader 's imagination , where it 's sure to be more outrageous . " <p> Readers will search in vain for any explanation of the rules to Calvin Ball ... but that 's really no accident . Watterson established clearly that you make up the rules of Calvin Ball as you go . <p> Pearls Before Swine creator Stephan Pastis says that he has never come up with a definite answer for what the crocodiles ' accent ( " Hullo , zeeba @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did give an answer to that question . The Crocodiles are speaking " Crocese " . <p> Kind of undermined by the comic itself , where it is pretty much established that , of all the Crocs we meet , it is only Larry , Bob and a few others who speak like that . Larrys wife , son and parents all speak english without any visible accent . <p> " The answer to this is very simple . It was a joke . It had to be a number , an ordinary , smallish number , and I chose that one . Binary representations , base thirteen , Tibetan monks are all complete nonsense . I sat at my desk , stared into the garden and thought ' 42 will do ' I typed it out . End of story . " <p> Tabletop Games <p> Many fans of the Dungeons &; Dragons campaign setting Eberron frequently ask questions such as " What happened to destroy Cyre and create the Mournland ? " no matter how many times such things are said to explicitly be points of Canon Uncertainty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so DMs can provide their own and easily work those events into their own plotline . <p> Additionally , a similar question involving the Planescape campaign setting is one regarding the true nature of Sigil 's ruler/guardian , the Lady of Pain . A straight answer has never been given , other than a novel hinting that she has ties to the Greek pantheon of gods . The most direct answer simply states that she was inspired by the title character of Algernon Swinburne 's poem " Dolores " . <p> Incidentally , unlike the Eberron scenario , which it 's stated explicitly that it is the DMs call to provide an explanation for the various mysteries , Planescape encouraged DMs to leave such questions regarding the Lady of Pain and various other multiversal engimas deliberately unanswered , to maintain the setting 's particular ethos . <p> Similarly , the nature and identity of Ravenloft ' s Dark Powers are usually kept mysterious . <p> While some fans reject the 3rd edition Ravenloft products , they did provide a satisfactory answer : the Dark Powers have no canonical true nature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worries . <p> Steve Jackson of Steve Jackson Games ( the creators of GURPS ) has been known to answer obscure questions about his games with " Fnord . " ( A reference to the Illuminatus ! trilogy , which has often gotten Shout Outs in SJG products . ) <p> Given the sensitive nature of the subject matter ( religion ) in the In Nomine roleplaying game from Steve Jackson Games , many topics are what the Line Editor officially refers to as matters of " Canon Doubt and Uncertainty " . Each individual DM is supposed to come up with their own answers to such questions as ' Was Jesus Christ really the Son of God ? ' , and the official game material has never and will never address the issue directly . <p> One noted example in the New Orleans : City of the Damned supplement is that Donovan , the Prince 's Sheriff , is concealing his identity and that it would be disastrous if his true identity were made known . About the only information the book gives about his past is that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shanley wo n't reveal whether , in his play Doubt , the priest molested the children or not . The point of the play is the investigation . He has , however , noted that he has decided on an answer and told the actors playing Father Flynn , although nobody else . <p> W. S. Gilbert , when asked about whether or not Jack Point is dead ( the libretto says that he " falls insensible " ) at the end of The Yeomen Of The Guard , said : " The fate of Jack Point is in the hands of the audience , who may please themselves whether he lives or dies . " ( However , he was also reported as having said " Jack Point should die " when asked if it was all right to treat Point as dead . ) <p> Samuel Beckett , when asked what , exactly , Waiting For Godot even meant responded " What do you think ? " And then , on being given the interviewer 's analysis , " Hmmm , interesting . " And that is all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ piece of Fanon that persists in studies of the play . " If I meant Godot to be God , I would have simply called him God . " Though , to complicate matters , at another point he did claim that his subconscious does things without him at times . All in all , " If I knew who Godot was , I would have said so in the play . " <p> Henrik Ibsen ' s play Ghosts ends with one main character deciding whether or not to kill her son . Ibsen refused to state what she chose , saying it was too important of a question . <p> A lot of people have asked Stephen Sondheim what the giant 's wife from the second act of Into the Woods represents in real life ( global warming , AIDS , etc . ) . Sondheim 's response : " To James Lapine and me , it is a giant . Enough said . " <p> Toys <p> Greg Farshtey , writer of most of the BIONICLE media , occasionally does this in a very Deadpan Snarker -ish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a nitpick , but in Federation of Fear , Tren Krom is described as having yellow eyes . But in The Mutran Chronicles , and on his BS 01 entry , he is said to have little more than holes laid into his skull for eyes . Which one is the accurate description ? <p> The Final Fantasy XI dev team is frustratingly notorious for this . Every interview they have will always have at least one question with an ambiguous answer that 's as vague as possible . Always . It 's not so bad to want your MMO to have some mysteries , but trying to have your game as Guide Dang It as possible with things that hundreds of thousands of players have n't figured out for 4+ years is something else entirely . <p> The " you wish it was only Nintendo Hard " boss Absolute Virtue is featured in a developer-made video showing unimaginably vague " hints " for beating it . Every single frame of the video has been scrutinized and subjected to dizzying heights of Wild Mass Guessing . To this day , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ <p> It has been figured out that the developers were trying to show that matching AV 's two hours with your own locks them . He remains unbeatable because the video did n't show/was unclear on how to stop him from spamming meteor and killing everyone once his health drops below a certain point . <p> When asked what the pop condition was for Almighty Apkallu ( a monster who has only ever been seen a handful of times ) they initially shrugged saying that they did n't remember that monster . Later they responded with the vague hints of " First of all , luck plays a big role in whether he appears or not " and " He does n't like being left alone , and will wander off if no one is around to keep him company . " <p> A similar issue currently exists in Final Fantasy VII regarding Sephiroth and Jenova 's exact relationship ( as in , which one was dominant ) . Although the Ultimania guide mentioned that Sephiroth was in control of Jenova , Dissidia 012 's museum bio for Sephiroth , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , stated that he , upon returning , was " an agent of Jenova 's will " , which would imply that Jenova was in fact the dominant one . <p> When asked how Kirby got his name , Masahiro Sakurai says he does n't remember . <p> What happened 10 years ago , during the War ? Why did the scientists come to the island ? And what the hell is Balrog ? These are just a few of the questions that all Cave Story fans wish to have answers to . Yet all Pixel-san says is " I leave it to the player 's imagination " . <p> On an interview about the Wii version though , he answered one of the questions : Balrog 's design was based on soap . <p> Much like in the Cave Story example , the setting of Touhou is basically made of this trope . The creator has repeatedly mentioned he wants people to fill in the blanks themselves . Heck , even the manuals are , in universe , written by Unreliable Narrators who write based on hearsay , so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in stone Word Of God . Of course , this only spurs the fans further . <p> In Knights of the Old Republic 2 , it 's strongly hinted at that Kreia is Arren Kae , Brianna 's mother . If this is news to anyone , check out Scorchy 's post here . Still , the writer Chris Avellone 's response to a question on this was " Ca n't comment , but good catch . Sorry . " <p> Anyone that 's read MCAs Fallout Bibles would recognise " good catch " as his standard response to a coincidence or minor detail pointed out by a fan that he actually likes the implications of . <p> In the RPG Tales Of The Abyss this is how the creators reacted to the question of whether the main character , Luke , survives or not . Cue endless debates on the subject . <p> Every single time Testuya Nomura is asked about when Kingdom Hearts 3 will be announced , it usually results in this . Like in this interview concerning Birth By Sleep : <p> Interviewer : Do you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clearing this one ? <p> Nomura : Hmmm , I think there are a lot of puzzling elements , so maybe they 'll want to play the next game ... and there 'll be a secret movie too . <p> Interviewer : The next game ! ? Do you mean " III " ! ? <p> Nomura : The next game will be the next game ( laughs ) <p> And on the subject of Kingdom Hearts , according to the Ultimania , Roxas " may or may not " have had Ventus 's heart . <p> Half-Life ' s writer , Marc Laidlaw , remains very careful not to make any crucial statements about some of the fuzzier parts of the series ' continuity . He does not only hold this attitude towards the Gearbox expansions , but also towards Valve 's games as well . <p> The Freespace series was never completed , and Volition have said perhaps two things about the story and where it was going to go , which actually raised more questions than they answered . Cue the Epileptic Trees . <p> In a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years after the last game was released ) , lead writer Jason Scott did reveal a few details about what was planned for the future games . However , he did so in such a vague manner that he simply fuelled further speculation . <p> In regards to whether or not Adell 's ears are pointed like other demons , the creators of Disgaea responded only that " there 's nothing special about them . " Nobody 's quite sure if they meant that they 're normal human ears or normal demon ears . <p> For several years , fans have always asked Valve how the entire Zombie Apocalypse started for the Left 4 Dead series , but an answer has yet to be produced since Valve wants fans to come up with their own theories instead of always being spoon fed information . <p> Fans are also demanding to know what happens to the Left 4 Dead 2 survivors after they are saved by the military at the end of The Parish campaign since the military was killing carriers of the virus and it was confirmed that the survivors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the subject . <p> An interview with one of the primary writers of Beyond Good And Evil gave fans an opportunity to ask their many tickling questions about the game . One , with regard to character names , was " What does ' Double H ' stand for ? " Answer ? They do n't know . It probably comes from his initials ... maybe . <p> The EverQuest II developers are infamous for doing this . So much so , that not giving a straight answer one way or another has frustrated many a customer into cancelling their accounts because of the sheer unpredictability of where the game was heading in terms of both story and gameplay mechanics . <p> Arguably , the character Cranky Kong in the Donkey Kong Country series . While no one questions that he 's supposed to be the original Donkey Kong , Rare has flip-flopped on the issue on whether he 's Donkey Kong 's father or grandfather ( meaning either modern DK is Donkey Kong Junior or his son ) . While more sources say grandfather , they did try @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , leading the writers to state on their website to ignore instances of their previous mistake . Since this was the last Donkey Kong game they developed , this attempt at Word Of God has gone unnoticed . ( There 's also the argument that Rare themselves was never meant to be taken seriously , as they have a history of making jokes about these sorts of questions . ) <p> Even more confusing , Retro Studies has implied at least once that THEIR Cranky Kong might be Rare 's Donkey Kong . <p> The first Rune Factory game 's ending is the best example . After saving the day it reveals that the merchant Ivan is actually a relative of the king who was searching for his long lost brother which would be you . In an interview it 's actually stated that both characters are related to the king , but it never says if they 're related to one another . It still just strongly hints too it . <p> Other examples from the same interview is that Iris is not a vampire and probably not a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knows where the Saint-Coquilles money comes from , and Sharron is " probably not human . " ( Note that there is no indication of that last one anywhere in game . ) <p> Tom Siddell of Gunnerkrigg Court is usually very helpful about providing answers , no matter how pointless or obscure . But when future plot points or very specific questions about numbers or lengths of time come up , Mr. Siddell proves a master of answering questions without actually answering the questions . <p> T Campbell is as notorious as Tom for answers like these , although usually responding to fans who should have known better . One noteworthy Shrug of God is that he refuses to reveal whether the Herman 's Head storyline 20 2020 Pennies was a dream or an actual plane of existence -- which would n't be so bad , except that he did say the versions of Penny and Aggie featured there were bisexual and lesbian , respectively . <p> Interestingly , Dave of Bob and George rarely answers questions about his own comic , more likely , someone on the BnG @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the meaning of life , which Dave leaves alone ( in most cases ) . <p> Any questions about plotholes are actually taboo in the BnG community . <p> That 's because there are no plotholes . Even the ones you think you see , even the ones you know you see , are not plotholes . <p> Since sex is never actually depicted in Out There , Monroe states in his blog that it 's up to the reader to decide how far things go . <p> What I ? ve tried to do with Out There is have it both ways . Whichever way you think it ought a be , you win . If you think that Miriam and Chuck should have had sex , and Araceli and Rod should have had sex , and Sherry and Steven must have had sex , then okay ? they had sex . Everyone who you think should have had sex with whoever they should have had sex with , did . You just didn ? t see it . If , on the other hand , it makes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot but stopped before things got too out of hand , then that ? s cool too ? there ? s nothing in the strip that proves otherwise . Winners everywhere . <p> Rick and Becky have so much material prepared that they can answer almost any question you have about the series . Unfortunately , so much of the material will be important to the plot of a later story ( often one that they wo n't even get to start working on for years ) , that the question is n't can they answer your particular question , but will they . <p> Chris Hastings , author of The Adventures of Dr. McNinja has explained that he does n't know how The Robster ( a tricky lobster man ) puts his suit on over his claws . <p> The Dreadful Christmas Special , in which Kit kills the grinch with an overdose of cheer , is confirmed as canon on the author 's twitter . He does not know when or where it happens however . <p> Andrew Hussie is usually ready to answer questions about specific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he simply does n't care enough about to resolve . The details of the dead members of The Felt is the most persistently shrugged line of questioning . ( He eventually answered it once they appeared in the story ) . <p> Some things previously shrugged : <p> Troll anatomy ( usually questions about this are answered with jokes , or pointing out that the asker is asking about the genitalia of 13 year olds ) . <p> So far , the author of Drowtales has refused to answer any questions about the identity of the father of Mel'arnach and Kel'noz Val'Sarghress . This has led to lots of speculation among fans about who he might be , since the last time a question of parentage was met with a Shrug of God the eventually revealed answer surprised everyone . <p> Web Original <p> None of the editors on Orion 's Arm will ever answer certain questions about certain setting elements . Are the Dawn Hunters real ? Why did the previous galactic empires all up and disappear ? " The last -- " What did they find at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ? Which of the higher Archailects actually exist ? Is the universe just another Bottle Universe ? Are the Amalgamation Terragen or Xeno ? <p> To be fair , this is in keeping with the setting ; certain things , particularly those involving the Archailects themselves , are deemed to be ultimately impossible to explain in terms that we mere humans can grasp with our tiny organic brains . <p> The official policy of The Salvation War is that , as far as possible , everything that happens has some kind of rational , scientific explanation . In some cases , the divergence between the demands of mythology and what is scientifically plausible is so great that it can not be bridged . To get around this ( and to give the Angels and Daemons some hope of surviving the massed human firepower being thrown at them ) , it is stipulated that the laws of physics on Earth and in Heaven/Hell are slightly different . This results in the characters saying they have no idea why this thing is happening , so they 're just going to accept that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the scientific method at work " we do n't understand it but we 'll study it until we do . " Meanwhile , the engineering method of finding an empirical solution by trial and error is used to create a work-around . In some cases , these shrugs are actually puzzles that are solved later in the story line . <p> Many of the senior writers and editors of the SCP Foundation never give straight answers about the details and inner workings of the Foundation and the SCPs it contains . The stock reply to lore questions usually is to figure it out for yourself . Or that there is no canon : <p> Dr. Gears : At the end of the day , people can call it canon , non-cannon , brilliant , and stupid , and be right and wrong all at the same time . When dealing with the SCP , you have to understand that we took Canon out behind the barn and shot it in the head a long , long time ago . <p> Burnie Burns , the creator and writer of Red @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the series . Ask him about Tex , though , and he instantly shuts up . He also enjoys leaving smaller plot threads hanging for the wild mass guessers in the forums . <p> Lanzer , admin of Gaia Online , does this a lot in the weekly open interview sessions . <p> afroakuma seems to do this with roughly half the questions he gets in the Vote Up A Campaign Setting discussion threads . More often than not , he appears to do it For the Evulz ; certain questions have been noted by him to be unanswerable for valid(ish) reasons , though . <p> Western Animation <p> Avatar The Last Airbender : Supposedly Word Of God says that Azula could eventually regain her sanity and/or redeem herself , but did n't say if she actually will . This was likely because a definite " yes " would feel cheap , but a definite " no " would seem rather harsh . <p> Before that , they gave a rather playful shrug when a fan asked about the name of the previous airbender Avatar who appeared in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was eventually revealed to be named Yangchen . <p> One of the storyboard artists did an unofficial sequel/side story ( in webcomic format ) which propounds that Azula does eventually regain at least some measure of sanity . No word on whether any of it is actually canon . <p> Glen Murakami of Teen Titans fame is ( in ) famous for not caring about the finer points that get the Fandom up in arms . The Shrug of God is the official answer to anything related to whether or not it 's in continuity with the other DCAU cartoons , anything to do with the characters ' origins or out-of-costume lives ( most famously , which Robin it is ) , and pretty much anything not detailed onscreen . General fan consensus is that Teen Titans is n't part of the DCAU and Robin is Dick Grayson , but The Powers That Be have never answered yes or no , not considering these things to be important . <p> David Slack , a writer for the show , disagrees , having stated that the Robin we see is Dick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ points to Robin being Dick Grayson . The relationship with Starfire , the scene with two trapeze artists falling to their doom when Raven mind searches him , and the fact that the series is based off the 80 's incarnation of Teen Titans . <p> Also , " Larry , " the impish Robin from another dimension , said his real name was Nosyarg Kcid or " Dick Grayson " backwards . <p> And he becoming Nightwing in an alternate future . <p> The comic book version of the show ( called Teen Titans Go ! ) , which continued past the show 's end , later confirmed that this Robin was indeed Dick Grayson , as we see Robin without the mask for the first time , and Starfire refers to him as Dick . <p> Greg Weisman , writer of Gargoyles , can go into this territory . Admittedly , he 's already revealed much of what would 've ( and may yet eventually ) happen had the story been allowed to continue . So now fans wind up asking questions that get the simple answer of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time " or some variant thereof . Man 's got ta keep some secrets . <p> When ever asked about the color of a character that has yet appeared in the show or comics , Greg refuses to answer because he is color blind and needs help with the coloring choice of his characters . <p> Weisman is very fond of answering with " No comment " when asked about specific elements relating to the world of Young Justice . Oftentimes , it appears that he does so in order to avoid potential spoilers about future episodes . <p> This was done by the creators of The Venture Bros. for a subplot that seemed to be unambiguous in canon . According to Doc Hammer , the writers still have n't decided if Myra is the boys ' birth mother . <p> They 've openly admitted that they do n't plan anything , so chances are if it has n't been written into an episode , they do n't know the answers any more than the fans . <p> The creators of Phineas And Ferb claim that the title characters have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , just that they are " less than fifteen . " They did this after making seeing how well different age groups all identified with them . <p> Likewise they wo n't bother answering questions about Ferb 's Missing Mom or Phineas 's Disappeared Dad ; they would rather fans just focus on the Flynn-Fletchers as a happy blended family . Fans speculate , however , that the episode " What Do It Do ? " may have been meant to Joss the fan theory that Doofenshmirtz is Phineas ' father , as he mentions having met Linda only once years before Phineas could have been born . <p> It 's not Doof , they said so in an interview . Not that this stops fanfic writers from making him so ; you would n't believe how many stories this troper has read that use this . <p> Of course , then Adult Party Cartoon made them out-and-out gay , but most people exposed to that show throw it out of continuity ... <p> On the Adult Party Cartoon DVD , John K. states that Ren &; Stimpy 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll buy it . The show ran on Negative Continuity from day one . <p> One question Family Guy fans wondered was whether the other Griffins could understand what Stewie was saying . When asked this question ( on the early season DVDs ) , creator Seth MacFarlane replied , " Well , Brian can understand him . " Later episodes have indicated that they do , in fact , understand him , they just disregard him . <p> The question of " Who is Mysterion ? " from the South Park episode " The Coon " . Trey Parker and Matt Stone flat-out stated that they do n't know who Mysterion is , and that there is no specific character who they intended Mysterion to be . Fans continued to debate the issue and presented evidence backing up various theories , until the issue was finally revisited in the three-part " Coon And Friends " Trilogy . ( In case you 're wondering , it 's Kenny . ) <p> Lauren Faust , the producer of My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic , likes to occasionally answer questions about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , though , she has refused to answer questions , saying that she has an idea of the answer , but does n't want to tie herself down to any particular position when a different answer might come up later as a plot point , and sometimes the process of writing produces more interesting answers than trying to figure it out ahead of time . Other times , she 's mentioned that she simply does n't have an answer because it 's not really something she goes out of her way to think about . <p> Lauren : " We do n't hammer logic that hard on this show . " <p> Now that God Does Not Own This World , her responses have migrated to " My theory is X , but I do n't know how the current show runners will handle that . " . <p> In an old Simpsons magazine , an avid fan wrote a highly detailed analysis of the ( then mostly unexplored ) question of which state Springfield is in . After ultimately eliminating all 50 states , he asked Matt Groening for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a state of confusion , but mostly it 's a state of mind . " <p> One commentary explains that Groening came up with the name under the impression that it was the most used city name in America , but later found out it 's actually Riverside . This gives him an idea for an episode where the Simpsons move to one of those Riversides . <p> Groening has since gone on record to say that while he loosely based it on Springfield , Oregon , that does not necessarily mean it is its location in the show . " The true location of Springfield is in any state but yours . " In other words , we 're back to square one ... Unless you believe David Silverman , who directed the most episodes of the series and has stated that Springfield is in the fictional state of North Takoma . <p> The Simpsons Movie revealed that it 's nowhere . Flanders says that the four boarder states of Springfield are Ohio , Nevada , Maine and Kentucky . No state like that exists

@@5038341 <h> The heart and soul of Election Day ; over 400 poll workers turn out to help on Nov. 6 <p> For most Humboldt County residents , dropping by their local polling station constitutes the extent of their civic duty on Election Day . But for Humboldt County 's more than 400 poll workers , Election Day is an all-day affair . <p> Deborah Storre -- a poll worker at Zane Middle School for the past 10 years -- likens the experience to jury duty . <p> " It 's something all citizens should do because elections only run as smoothly as the people who are working them , " the 68-year-old said . <p> Storre grew up in Eureka , but gave up her United States citizenship when she moved to Canada after marrying her husband . When she moved back to Eureka in 2001 and reapplied for citizenship , Storre decided she wanted to give back to her native country . So when the Humboldt County Election 's Office called her up and said they need an inspector -- the lead poll worker at a precinct-- she agreed . <p> " I just decided it was something @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ever since , " she said . <p> Humboldt County Registrar of Voters Carolyn Crnich said poll workers are responsible for setting up and maintaining security at their polling stations -- and much more . <p> They greet voters in line , show them were to sign on the roster and hand out ballots , she said . Once the last voter has left the booth , the poll workers real job begins . <p> " At the end of the day , they are responsible for accounting for every piece of ballot paper handed out at the polls . <p> Advertisement <p> They make sure every ballot gets counted and delivered to our office , " Crnich " We say we have a democracy of the people , by the people , for the people . Poll workers are those people ensuring that is true . " <p> Storre said accounting for all of the ballots is the hardest part of the job . <p> " I have heard it likened to trying to balance a checkbook when you have been awake for three days , " she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after sheet of signatures when you 've been up since 4:30 a.m. , but when it all works out it 's very satisfying . " <p> The poll workers job begins on the eve of Election Day , when they start setting up the polling booths at their precinct . At 7 a.m. the following morning , the poll workers officially announce that the polls are open . The polls do n't close until 8 p.m. after the last ballot has been cast . On a good night , Storre said , everything is turned off , accounted for and ready to be handed over to the election 's office by 9:30 p.m . <p> Although poll workers do receive a small stipend , Crnich said given the number of hours they work , it is n't much . <p> Storre --who estimated that she and the three other poll workers at her polling station spent about 16 hours working at Zane Middle School on Nov. 6 -- said she does n't do it for the money . <p> " I think the vast majority of voters are so appreciative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , " she said . " That 's enough to keep me coming back each year . " <p> Eureka resident Tom Peters agreed . The 67-year-old has served as a poll worker for nine years and said he plans to keep coming back as long as he can . <p> " I 'm certainly not in it for the big bucks , " he said . " It 's not rocket science work , but you get to greet all kinds of people and share with them that experience of voting . It really does carry its own energy . " <p> Crnich said the elections office is always looking for more dedicated poll workers like Peters and Storre . <p> " Ideally , we would like to have about four workers at each precinct , " she said . " That 's the standard we aim for . " <p> Crnich said maintaining those numbers can be hard in some of the far-flung precincts like Hoopa , Bridgeville and Garberville . <p> This year , Crnich said she had to call up 58-year-old Jeni Sue Wilburn , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mind helping out at an under-staffed Hoopa polling station . <p> Wilburn said the long drive seemed daunting at first , but she was glad she did . <p> " It turned out to be a fine day , " Wilburn said . " I guess it was a record turnout , the three other poll workers there said they had never seen so many people out to vote . It feels good to help with that . " <p> Crnich said it would be ideal if members or residents of a precinct worked at the polls in the precinct in which they lived , but that does n't always happen . <p> " Thankfully , we maintain a list of people who -- bless their little hearts -- we can call and ask to come in if someone does n't turn up -- like Jeni , " she said . " We just have to work with what we have . " <p> Although the next big election wo n't be until the 2014 presidential election , Crnich said she hopes more county residents will consider signing up to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are the heart and soul of an election , " she said . " What they do really gets to the root of what an election in a democracy is all about . When it comes

@@5038441 <h> Turkey on the Way to the 100th Anniversary of the Republic <p> Editor 's Note : On November 13 , Kemal Dervi ? spoke at the Turkish Embassy in Washington , D.C. on Turkey 's road to the 100th anniversary of the Republic . This lecture was hosted by the Turkish Embassy and the American Friends of Turkey . <h> Highlights <p> The economic measures and reforms of the 1920s and 1930s , including the mixed economy , public and private sector economic strategy followed , allowed Turkey to emerge into the second half of the 20th century as an increasingly dynamic country , still with low incomes , but doing much better than most other parts of the ex-Ottoman Empire . <p> Turkey participated in a " world civilization " which had succeeded in producing scientific , technological and economic progress , but it was not dominated by the countries who had been leading technological progress . <p> Economic success is crucial on the road to 2023 . For many decades Turkey has been one of the more dynamic economies of the world , starting form a very low income base . <p> To become one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Turkey needs to grow at an average of about 7 percent a year , with this growth complemented by some further appreciation of the Turkish Lira , reflecting not speculative capital inflows , but superior long term productivity performance . <p> It is a great honor and pleasure to be able to share some thoughts with this group of distinguished guests tonight . I am very grateful to the organizers , the AFT and Elizabeth Shelton , and to Ambassador Tan for hosting it . Turkey is about to embark on the decade leading to 2023 , the 100th anniversary of the Republic founded by Atatrk and his companions . Prime Minister Erdo ? an has set as a national objective to have Turkey in 2023 become one of the 10 largest economies in the world ( Turkey is ranked 16th today ) . It is a good time to briefly look back at the last 90 years , but even more so , to look ahead 10 years and try to see what kind of Turkey is emerging in this first half of the 21st century . This lecture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am an economist , not a historian . But we are discussing the 100th anniversary of the Republic and I will start with a story about Atatrk , which is also a story about modern Turkey . <p> From 2005 to 2009 , I was Executive Head of the United Nations Development Program , headquartered in New York . In 2007 , I hired a new research analyst for my front office . She was a very bright young Turkish woman , perhaps about 25 years old . She was not from Istanbul , Ankara or Izmir , but from Samsun , on the eastern Black Sea coast in Anatolia . I went to her office to welcome her on her first day of work . She had not yet unpacked anything , the office was full of boxes , her table was empty and the walls were clear of posters or pictures . Clear , except for one picture which she had hung on the yet bare walls : a picture of Atatrk , of Mustafa Kemal Pa ? a . <p> I asked myself , is there any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first half of the 20th century , the picture of whom would be the first thing a young research analyst would hang on her bare walls , by her own initiative , outside of her own country , the minute she started a new job , in the first decade of the 21st century ? I could not come up with any other example that even came close . This is not to say that there have not been very great leaders in the 20th century , whose names emerge forcefully from history books and who have had a determining impact on their countries and the world . But the association between the Turkish Republic and Mustafa Kemal Atatrk has been particularly strong . I should add that Nergis was certainly patriotic , she loved Turkey and her " Turkishness " , but not at all in a narrow excessively nationalistic way . She was open to the world , an excellent economist , loving New York , as an American and also global city , loving the United Nations where she still works in a more senior position , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also very interested in helping the poorest countries of the world , eager to know Africa , Asia and Latin America . She was also a woman . <p> Millions of Turkish women , in particular , carry deep in their hearts a lasting gratitude for the revolutionary changes Atatrk introduced to make it possible for them to become equal citizens , equal human beings . <p> Millions of Turkish women , in particular , carry deep in their hearts a lasting gratitude for the revolutionary changes Atatrk introduced to make it possible for them to become equal citizens , equal human beings . Putting Atatrk on the wall as the first thing she did was symbolic of how his name and the history of the struggle to establish the Turkish Republic remains part of the identity of so many of Turkey 's citizens . While in the 1930s , and later , there have been strong attempts to fabricate an ethnic basis for Turkish identity , the association between Atatrk and identity is far from one based on ethnicity . On the contrary , it is based on two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I mean . <p> One of the Turkish novels that impressed me the most as a young man was Kemal Tahir 's novel entitled " Yorgun Sava ? ? " , in English , the " Tired Warrior " . It is a novel about the catastrophic defeat of the Ottoman Empire , it 's tearing apart by the Western powers after World War I , the terrible feeling of loss in the hearts of an officer of the Ottoman army , and despite all this , the will to survive , the will to resist , the will to rise again . It is this will that Mustafa Kemal catalyzed , harnessed , and led to victory . At stake was survival and self determination , including the future of millions of Moslem refugees from the Balkans , the Aegean islands , Crimea and the Caucasus . Many spoke the Turkish of those times , but many others spoke Bosnian , Greek , Kurdish , Albanian , Arabic or Bulgarian , or the languages of Circassians , Georgians or Tatars as their mother tongues . <p> Despite the ethnic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Republic was founded on a multi-ethnic basis -- indeed there is his famous answer to the question of who is a Turk : A Turk is a citizen of the Turkish Republic . Just like an American is a citizen of the United States , whatever her or his origin . <p> Despite the ethnic ideology that some later tried to impose , Atatrk 's Republic was founded on a multi-ethnic basis -- indeed there is his famous answer to the question of who is a Turk : A Turk is a citizen of the Turkish Republic . Just like an American is a citizen of the United States , whatever her or his origin . But , to be honest , while definitely multi-ethnic , this " founding identity " was not really multi-religious . The western powers and Russia had encouraged the Christian minorities to side with them against the Ottomans . There had been terrible ethnic cleansing and massacres on a grand scale by all sides throughout the Balkan Wars and World War I. The refugees from Crimea , from the Caucasus , from the Balkans were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Moslems in their homelands . During the sad population exchange agreed between Turkey and Greece after the independence war , Greek speaking Moslems from Greece had to come to Turkey , and Turkish speaking Orthodox Christians , had to resettle in Greece . The Republic became a secular Republic , and all citizens had indeed the same legal rights , but there were to be officially recognized non-Moslem minorities , but no Moslem minorities , since the very construction of the Republic was based on the assembly of various largely Moslem groups into Turkey and " Turkishness " . So at the very root of Turkish republican identity there was the memory of the heroic resistance against huge odds by the " tired warriors " , the construction of a new homeland for Moslem populations from all over the larger region and their merging into a new " Turkishness " . The misguided attempts to translate this identity into some ethnic-racial concept later on in the 1930s , became a source of confusion and problems . But I think one should not forget that Atatrk 's Republic was a direct @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ haven to millions of people fleeing persecution from various ethnic origins , refugees who were , however , all Moslems . It is this collective memory of survival in the face of a threat of annihilation that is the first strong dimension of identity that leads to the extraordinary longevity of Atatrk 's memory . It also explains the strange co-existence in the Republican tradition , between assertive secularism and , yet , a " de facto " state religion . Note that this is in the end not that different from what was the situation in the United States for a long time : a definitely multi-ethnic nation , although it took a long time for African-Americans to become full citizens , but also a nation both secular and with a " Christian " identity , despite the many non-Christians who lived in it . Even today in some circles there remains the perception of a link between being an American and a having a Christian faith . <p> The second dimension of this feeling of identity linked to Atatrk is rooted in the impressive modernization that he led @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amazingly successful . Anatolia had been one of the poorest and least developed parts of the late Ottoman Empire . Places like Egypt , Syria , Bosnia or Macedonia , were much richer than the Anatolian heartland . The economic measures and reforms of the 1920s and 1930s , including the mixed economy , public and private sector economic strategy followed , allowed Turkey to emerge into the second half of the 20th century as an increasingly dynamic country , still with low incomes , but doing much better than most other parts of the ex-Ottoman Empire . <p> Even before the Second World War , Turkey became a respected , modern and independent nation , no longer the " sick man of Europe " , able to give its educated elites at least , a feeling of " equality " with the citizens of the most advanced parts of the world . Turkey was not a colony . Turkey was not dominated by others . Turkey was respected and controlled its own destiny . <p> Even before the Second World War , Turkey became a respected , modern and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Europe " , able to give its educated elites at least , a feeling of " equality " with the citizens of the most advanced parts of the world . Turkey was not a colony . Turkey was not dominated by others . Turkey was respected and controlled its own destiny . Turkey participated in a " world civilization " which had succeeded in producing scientific , technological and economic progress , but it was not dominated by the countries who had been leading technological progress . That gave our parents and ourselves , a pride that carries Atatrk 's memory through the generations . <p> Of course these two dimensions were strongly linked in the minds of the " tired warriors " who found the strength to rise again and create the Republic . Professor ? kr Hanio ? lu , in his book on Atatrk , tells us that after attending a western opera in Sofia as a young military attach , an impressed Mustafa Kemal is said to have remarked that he now understood how the Bulgarians had defeated the Ottomans the previous year . Turkey had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be defeated again ! <p> I think it is these two dimensions , the memory of sheer survival , and the feeling of participating as an equal in global progress , that explains why the young woman in New York wanted Atatrk on her office 's wall , before anything else . Nobody was forcing her , nobody was telling her to do it , she wanted to do it because it was part of the perception she has of her identity . <p> Before turning to today and the future , let me touch on another important point . There is little doubt that the early Republican period was accompanied by sometimes bloody repression of rebellion and dissent , in very authoritarian ways , and by what quickly became a one party state led by a single man . One should not forget , however , that these were terrible times in Europe , with Stalin in Russia , Hitler in Germany , Mussolini in Italy and the fascists taking over in Spain . Taha Akyol , in his impressively researched latest book entitled " Atatrk 's Revolutionary Justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operated in the 1920 and 1930s . But as Taha Akyol writes , there is no comparison between the extent of the totalitarian violence of other revolutions , starting with the French revolution , and the authoritarianism of Atatrk 's Turkey . This is not to excuse or belittle the violence and arbitrariness there was , but it is to remember that , while very radical , the Turkish revolution was not very violent by comparison to others . Moreover , Atatrk never looked to communist Russia or fascist Germany or Italy as long-term potential allies , but he looked to France and Great Britain instead , despite the rise of fascist ideology in the Europe of the 1930s , and despite the fact that the western democracies had been adversaries in World War I and had tried to essentially obliterate Turkey from the map of the world , with only US President Woodrow Wilson at the time trying to argue for less harsh a settlement . <p> Atatrk and his companions saw the one party state as a tool for the revolutionary period , not an end in itself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , was for Turkey to become a democracy like France , Britain or the United States . It should not be surprising , therefore , that the minute the Second World War ended , Atatrk 's closest friend and companion who had succeeded him in 1938 , ? smet ? nn , moved Turkey to multi-party democracy , instead of trying to hang on to power , as Franco in Spain , or Salazar in Portugal did for many decades . Atatrk 's Republican Peoples Party led by ? nn , lost the 1950 election . Power , peacefully and democratically , passed to the opposition . ? nn had been Atatrk 's closest associate for two decades . Does this not show that Atatrk 's revolution was not totalitarian in its long-term goals , and that the founders of the Republic perceived the link between modernity , to which they were aspiring , and democracy ? Later on , there were several military coups trying to legitimize themselves with reference to Kemalism , and the understanding of what it means to practice democracy remained weak and patchy in Turkey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saw for decades in Latin America , Asia , and the Middle East , never tried to establish a full military dictatorship , although they wanted and managed to keep a lot of influence . A civilian government was restored each time in less than 3 years . Some officers had wanted to stay in power ; they were quickly marginalized . Deeply influenced by the underlying ideology of the Republic , the military as an institution believed that modernity was linked to democracy , as it was practiced by all the truly advanced countries after the defeat of fascism . They would never try to put Turkey into the group of third world dictatorships away from " contemporary civilization " of which a Kemalist Turkey had to be a part . They viewed themselves as guardians of secularism and territorial integrity , they were suspicious of decisions civilian politicians might take and were able to constrain civilian power , and they made devastating and hurtful mistakes , but , as an institution , they did not betray Atatrk by aiming to establish a lasting military regime . <p> Let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is today , and how it is heading to 2023 , on a journey that started almost a century ago . <p> Let me begin by the economy . Economic success is crucial on the road to 2023 . For many decades Turkey has been one of the more dynamic economies of the world , starting form a very low income base . The average GDP growth rate from 1946 to 2002 was about 5 percent , on the middle to high end of international experience . But while there were years of very rapid growth , there were also years of crisis and negative growth , such as for example in 1980 , in 1994 , in 1999 , in 2001 and then again in 2009 . These bad years lowered the average performance . Without them Turkey would have been one of the fastest growing economies in the world . In the last decade , ( 2003-2012 ) , average growth was again about 5 percent ( 3.7 percent per capita : with population growth much lower now , a 5 percent growth rate is a better per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) . If we take out 2008 and 2009 , the years of the world crisis associated with the US sub-prime mortgage disaster , GDP growth in Turkey would have averaged a spectacular 7 percent . But the high current account deficit reflecting too low a private domestic savings rate , still makes the Turkish economy vulnerable to outside shocks . Turkey has been able to reduce very substantially the public debt-to-GDP ratio thanks to the reforms of 2001-2002 and the strict fiscal policy also pursued by the Justice and Development Party governments . <p> Turkey 's public debt now stands at about 38 percent of GDP . Compare that to the more than 80 percent public debt ratios in the United States and in most European countries , with some , such as Italy , reaching 120 percent . <p> Turkey 's public debt now stands at about 38 percent of GDP . Compare that to the more than 80 percent public debt ratios in the United States and in most European countries , with some , such as Italy , reaching 120 percent . The Turkish household and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by international standards . The economy has therefore been very dependent on foreign capital inflows . When these inflows take the form of long-term investments in productive capacity , there is not much of a problem . But about two thirds of the inflows are much more speculative and short term , leading to an uncomfortable degree of potential volatility . To become one of the 10 largest economies in the world by 2023 , Turkey needs to grow at an average of about 7 percent a year , with this growth complemented by some further appreciation of the Turkish Lira , reflecting not speculative capital inflows , but superior long term productivity performance . Moreover growth alone can not be the sole objective . Equitable distribution of the fruits of growth should be more explicitly a part of the 2023 vision . <p> For the 2023 objective to be met , or for Turkey to come very close to it , there are several key conditions that must be fulfilled . The investment rate has to average not less than 23-24 percent , with domestic savings at about 18-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ below the 5 percent mark , which I consider the prudent upper limit for rapidly growing emerging market economies in general . This implies a 5 to 6 percentage point increase in Turkey 's savings rate , compared to its current level , a feasible , but difficult to attain objective . There is no magic recipe for increasing a country 's savings rate . A stable macro-economy , a strong and well regulated financial sector , a good return on investment , including a system of taxation that rewards long term savings and investment , are all desirable features . Other important conditions , for good resource allocation and a high investment rate , are clear rules of the game so that the economy can function without arbitrary and partisan political interventions . Establishing Independent and professional regulatory institutions , including an independent and strong Central Bank , ensuring transparent and competitive public procurement , and insisting on an arms- length distance between day to day politics and the workings of the marketplace , were key reforms we undertook in 2001 and 2002 . This is not at all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and supervision by the democratic process . But the democratic process and the governments of the day have to show the maturity of encouraging real competition in the economy , chose the regulators for their competence and independent judgment , and allow the best entrepreneurs and firms to invest and to succeed , whatever their political views . Progressive taxation and an increasingly strong social solidarity system can then aim at an equitable distribution of the gains from growth . <p> Beyond these factors having to do with economic management as such , the overall confidence citizens have in the future is of course also a key factor for economic success . <p> This brings me to the second precondition for reaching the goals set for 2023 . There has to be true internal peace and social cohesion . The fact that a party with strong references to religion is now in government for a decade , and is making plans for the hundredth anniversary in 2023 , shows how Turkish democracy has evolved and developed since the early years . A whole conservative and religious current in society , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of our 21st century , has been able to organize itself politically , broaden its base by reaching out to the moderate center-right , and get elected with increasing majorities . Until a very few years ago , the army still constituted a politically influential counterweight to this powerful current . That is no longer the case . For the first time since the Republic 's creation , civilian power is fully established and essentially unconstrained . In that sense Turkey is no longer different from the United States or the United Kingdom , to give just two examples . Successful democracy , however , is not just a " winner take all " system , where those who win elections , can do as they please . It has to include a system of checks and balances in a way that protects individual citizens , opposition groups , and whoever is in the minority . On the road to the hundredth anniversary of the Republic , Turkey now has the chance to show its citizens and the world that it has achieved what the founding fathers ultimately wanted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the country has become a full , normally functioning democracy . We have a chance to become just that , but we are unfortunately not there yet . It is not just that there is need for a new constitution and new laws offering much stronger protection to dissent and individual rights , it is also a question of behavior and socio-political norms . <p> Two more underlying structural challenges still stand in the way of a fully developed democracy . First , Turkey has to not only remain , but also to redefine secularism . I referred at the beginning of my lecture to the reason why , despite Atatrk 's secularism , Islam , and in fact Sunni Islam , was treated as a " de facto " if not " de jure " state religion . That was probably unavoidable given the circumstances at the time the Republic was founded . Survival required cohesion in a society where the State was closely identified with religious authority for centuries . Times have fortunately changed and Turkey 's survival is no longer at stake . Turkey , now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ separation of religion and state . Individuals are and can be religious as they please , the State should not be . It should also not interfere with , or try to constrain the forms in which religion is practiced , or not , as long as they are peaceful . If the governing party and the main opposition , which is the party founded by Mustafa Kemal , can truly agree on this kind of secularism , Turkey will have solved a huge social problem that was lingering under the surface throughout the last decades . <p> The second , equally important challenge , is related to the Kurdish issue . The Republic was founded as a multi-ethnic nation-sate , like the United States . But it was at a time when nationalism was reaching its peak in Europe . The founders of the Republic understandably thought they had to , and they largely succeeded in , creating a cohesive Turkish nation form its various diverse parts . The Bosnians , Tatars , Circassians , Albanians , Laz and other groups merged with the Turks of Anatolia into a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these lines I discovered that Strobe Talbott , then Deputy Secretary of State , now President of the Brookings Institution , had made the same point 14 years ago , in his Turgut zal Memorial lecture . The Republic had saved all these groups , and each was relatively small , although not at all insignificant in number . While there are probably close to 4 million citizens of Bosnian origin in Turkey today , they do not feel the need for Bosnian being taught in schools , or being taught in Bosnian . The situation is different for Turkey 's Kurdish citizens . From the beginning they were large in numbers and they grew even larger . The majority of them , lived in a less accessible part of the country , and those regions remained the poorest and were neglected by the central administration . There is today a Kurdish identity that has developed besides the Turkish identity , and there is not much point in debating why this happened , while something analogous did not happen for any of the other groups . It is there , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are , however , no clear-cut geographical boundaries between Kurds and other citizens in Turkey . Citizens of Kurdish origin live side by side with citizens of different ancestries . Migration and a dynamic economy have created a society where Turkey 's Kurds live and work all over Turkey , many of them participating in the rapid economic growth of the country . In the cities there is widespread marriage across all groups . <p> There is therefore only one solution . Turkey 's Kurds must not engage in violence and must seek their goals within Turkey 's democracy , while Turkey must become a country where Kurds can fully live their culture and identity as they perceive it and want to live it , as citizens of Turkey . <p> There is therefore only one solution . Turkey 's Kurds must not engage in violence and must seek their goals within Turkey 's democracy , while Turkey must become a country where Kurds can fully live their culture and identity as they perceive it and want to live it , as citizens of Turkey . As long as they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is up to them to decide how they want to live their identity , not up to others . I am truly optimistic that this can happen over the next ten years . Despite a sad and unacceptable degree of recent violence and terror , there is actually a feeling of belonging together , dating all the way back to the great Saladin , and rooted in centuries of living together . The Kurds played a critical role in Turkey 's war of independence . All citizens have a stake in the economy , and all know that violence is the biggest obstacle to investment and development . National cohesion will increase , not decrease , if full cultural rights and strengthened local government allow our Kurdish citizens to thrive , prosper and be free to speak and learn their language in a self-confident , democratic , and undivided Turkey , where public discourse relates national belonging to citizenship and not to ethnicity . Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdo ? an 's government has made genuine efforts in that direction over the past several years . I think much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also needed from the Kurdish side . President Abdullah Gl , in two very important recent speeches , on the occasion of the opening of Parliament and on the occasion of Republic Day on October 29th , forcefully stressed the need for a new constitution that much more effectively than today , protects freedom of speech and freedom of opinion , an area where very unfortunately , on some metrics at least , Turkey has moved backwards in the last two years . Three weeks ago , the new leader of Atatrk 's party , Kemal K ? l ? daro ? lu , visited the Kurdish mayor of Diyarbak ? r , Osman Baydemir , a strong and controversial proponent of Kurdish interests and issues , on the occasion of the religious holiday , the Kurban Bayram . I believe that this was an appropriate and courageous signal that those who cherish the memory of Mustafa Kemal as perhaps the most successful modernizer of the 20th century , realize that modernization and progress is a dynamic process that changes form and priorities , as history advances . I do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same time very pragmatic leader , would have visited the mayor of Diyarbak ? r , just as today 's CHPs leader did , if he had lived in 2012 . By this effort for internal peace , as well as many other efforts to modernize and strengthen the main opposition party , Kemal K ? l ? daro ? lu is contributing to democracy , which has to be a system where a credible opposition has to be an alternative to whoever has won the last elections . <p> Finally let me conclude with a few words on a third element the successful journey to 2023 must encompass , that has to do with Turkey 's place in the world , foreign policy and Turkish-American relations . Again these are not my areas of professional specialization , but it is not possible to separate economic , democratic and foreign policy success . A joyful celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Republic will have to be built on success in all three areas . The economic goal of becoming , or getting close to becoming , one of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at home and peace in the world " , as Atatrk had stressed . It is interesting , for example , that in the memoirs of Ali Fuat Cebesoy , one of Atatrk 's close early companions , as quoted by Taha Akyol , Mustafa Kemal , defending peace negotiator ? smet ? nn , who had asked for " accelerating the pace of the negotiations " , tells Ali Fuat Pa ? a , that he also regrets that the new Turkey could not achieve all its territorial claims at the Lausanne peace negotiations after the war of independence , but that peace required compromise and that " the important things we have to do at home ... could not be achieved without peace " . Atatrk could not have succeeded at home if he had not been at crucial times a pragmatist and realist , and very much committed to peace . Revenge for past wars , territorial expansion , ill feelings towards other nations because of past events , were far from his forward looking mind . Despite the Greek invasion of Anatolia after the Great War @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a peace and friendship treaty with Greece quickly after the Republic was established . Indeed , the friendship with Greece progressed so much , that the great Greek statesman Venizelos , formally nominated Ataturk for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1934 ! <p> As time is short I just want to make three points on these issues , which are crucial , however . They reflect in many ways , views you can also find in President Abdullah Gl 's two impressive speeches referred to already above , although I can not of course pretend to speak for him . I recommend to all who are interested in Turkish affairs to read these two Presidential speeches and see and judge by yourselves . <p> The first and most important point relates to Turkish " soft power " , particularly in the Middle East and the Moslem world . It is already very effective , but it could grow even more , by an order of magnitude . Our historical , cultural and emotional links with the Arab countries in particular , are deep and strong . I had the privilege @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ North Africa in the late 1990s . Nobody from Turkey can feel a stranger in these lands , marked by common architecture , familiar sounds of music , similar food and the celebration of common religious holidays . The same holds of course for Arab visitors to Turkey . Atatrk left a legacy of good neighborly relations , but also a strict legacy of peace and non-interference in other countries internal political affairs . Turkey 's influence in the region , greatly strengthened over the past ten years , should remain based on the power of our successful economic , cultural and democratic example , not on attempts to direct others in any way or to interfere beyond our borders . The Arab countries future is and should be in their hands . Neither Turkey nor the Unites States can shape that future . Particularly in the Middle East , which has suffered from colonial and imperial power coming from outside the region in the past , foreign interference will always end up being resented , even if it comes with the best of intentions . No people or country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even if , in the short term , various factions may appeal for it to further their cause . This is not to say that any of us can remain unaffected by people dying and suffering . Help in the form of attempts at impartial mediation as well as humanitarian aid , may often be necessary and highly desirable . Turkey can and is already playing an important humanitarian role , as far as Somalia . There is also the responsibility to protect all human beings under severe threat , within the framework of the United Nations . But Turkey should not appear to want to become a kind of neo-imperial power in the Middle East . This would badly misfire and undermine the real and positive soft power Turkey can deploy in the service of peace , economic development , human rights and democracy . It is on this that the United States and Turkey can work together . If Turkey can provide a shining example of economic success and internal peace and freedom , this will have a much greater impact on the region , then any foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dimension here relates to Europe . The whole European project and its institutional architecture is going through a severe crisis these days , triggered initially by the Greek crisis , and then by the more general problems of the Euro-zone . Europe remains , however , taken as a whole , an economy roughly as large as the United States , with the euro-zone actually running a significant current account surplus , and an area of impressive social achievements , peace and cooperation . I do believe the current problems will eventually be overcome , but that there will be a Europe with concentric circles of cooperation . There is likely to be a politically much more integrated core with the euro as common currency , pursuing coordinated fiscal policies and a banking union complementing the monetary union . There will also be other countries , most notably the United Kingdom , countries that will not be part of the more tightly integrated Monetary Union , but that will be part of the European Union and of the single economic market . The European Union and the United Kingdom continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and desirable that the United Kingdom stay in the Union . There could also be much more advanced cooperation among the members of this larger European Union on matters of defense , foreign policy , science , the environment and education . <p> Turkey can and should join this re-structured European Union and be a member more like the United Kingdom or perhaps also Sweden , outside the Monetary Union , but a full member otherwise , with elected euro-parliamentarians , a Turkish member of the Commission and participation in the European Council , the same way the United Kingdom is likely to participate in the future . <p> Turkey can and should join this re-structured European Union and be a member more like the United Kingdom or perhaps also Sweden , outside the Monetary Union , but a full member otherwise , with elected euro-parliamentarians , a Turkish member of the Commission and participation in the European Council , the same way the United Kingdom is likely to participate in the future . This is what we should aim for . Such a redefinition of the objective could infuse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of making Turkey a member of the European Union -- a European Union that in any case , has to re-invent itself . In no way will this diminish Turkey 's influence in the Middle East . On the contrary , a recent poll found that more than 60 percent of Arab citizens want Turkey to be a member of the EU . Being part of Europe can only increase Turkey 's soft power in the world . On Turkey 's Republic Day , the President again forcefully re-affirmed what can rightly be seen as a continuity coming from Atatrk 's vision , and linked this objective to the challenges facing Turkey today . By 2023 , I do believe Turkey can and should have become a full member of the new European Union , a Union that the whole world much needs in the 21st century . <p> Finally , let me share my perspective on the relations between Turkey and the United States , a topic on which many have spoken with great eloquence , including President Clinton when he visited Turkey , as well as president Obama @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worry , I am not going to start a whole new lecture at this late hour . I do want to stress , however that that the United States and Turkey share many characteristics , more than perhaps most people realize . There are now also several hundred thousand Turkish origin residents or citizens in the United States , feeling happy , productive and welcome . Of course the comparison must keep in mind that the United States is a much larger country , much richer , with an economic , political and military power equal to none other in the world . Turkey is a medium size , emerging economic power . So the comparison must keep that in mind . <p> The United States and Turkey are both countries and societies with a strong global dimension . The United States in its very social fabric , is linked to all parts of the world , with strong ties of course to Europe , but also to South and Central America , to Asia , with sizeable and growing Hispanic and Asian-American components of the American population , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's past , present and future , to the Middle East , with strong ties to Israel , but also to the Arab world . Despite ever present isolationist feelings and the two large oceans that separate the US geographically from most of the world , economics , demography and technology mean that America will become ever more global , while all Americans , even when more and more of them will speak Spanish as their mother tongue , will retain a strong sense of American identity . The same can be said for Turkey , in a somewhat more regional sense . It has been , for centuries , part of Europe , particularly of the Balkans , what we still call Rumeli . It is a largely Moslem country with deep cultural and religious ties to the Arab world . It is the successor of the Ottoman Empire , a state that gave refuge and warmly welcomed the Jewish community that had to leave Spain many centuries ago . It is a country with linguistic and now strong economic ties to Central Asia . It is a country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . And it has been a strong ally and friend of the Unites States , at least since the Korean War in the early 1950s , when the Turkish contingent in Korea was second in number only to the American one . As of 2012 , Turkish Airlines flies to more countries in the world than any other airline . Travelling way too much in my life , I can highly recommend it . <p> The world faces new , tremendous , global challenges . From climate change , to restoring solid and sustainable economic growth , from world trade and finance , to safety from terrorism or nuclear proliferation or to the control of infectious disease , many of the most difficult problems require strong global cooperation . In this day and age , nothing can be achieved any more by sheer force or be imposed from outside on other societies . Young people everywhere , however , are looking across borders , for examples of what works , what can bring happiness , freedom and prosperity . I do believe that for both the United States and Turkey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and to support each other in setting them . If we , both , succeed internally , we will succeed internationally . If on the other hand , we can not solve our own internal problems , it is hard to see how we can help solve the problems of the world . Moreover , if Turkey and the Unites States strongly cooperate in the many venues and organizations that exist , in NATO , at the United Nations , at the G-20 , the " soft power " of both countries can be leveraged in multiple ways for the benefit of citizens from both countries , and indeed for the benefit of the world as a whole . <p> The next decade will not be an easy one , for Turkey , for the United States or for the World . We will have to work hard , whether our activities are primarily economic , political , civil society oriented or academic . I do hope and trust however , that many of us , in 2023 , will be able to celebrate , wherever we may be at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Turkey , a 21st century republic and democracy , that looks forward , while cherishing the best features of its past . <p> Thank you all for your patience and for giving me the

@@5038541 <h> Type of Commercial Backfire <h> How 's That Again , General ? <h> Transcript <p> MALE NARRATOR #1 : How 's that again , General ? In the 1952 campaign the General complained about the cost of living . He promised his televison audience : <p> EISENHOWER clip : If people can afford less butter , less fruit , less bread , less milk ... Yes , it 's time for a change . <p> MALE NARRATOR #1 : How 's that again , General ? <p> EISENHOWER clip : Yes , it 's time for a change . <p> ESTES KEFAUVER : This is Estes Kefauver . The General 's promise to bring down prices was another broken promise . Since the Republicans took office the cost of living has reached its highest point in history . Today the consumer can buy less food , less housing , less clothing , less medical care than he could in nineteen hundred and fifty-two for the same money . The General promised a change for the better , and we got shortchanged for the worse . Think it through . <h> Share <h> Save <p> The words , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or her to show that the candidate can not be believed , has broken a promise , or has " flip-flopped " on an important issue . Based on the premise that the camera , or the microphone , does n't lie , these ads are effective because they work by self-incrimination . <p> In the first campaign ads that referred to previous ads , the series of 1956 ads " How 's That Again , General ? " replayed excerpts from Dwight Eisenhower 's 1952 spots . Vice-presidential candidate Estes Kefauver then explained how Eisenhower had n't kept his promises . <p> Barry Goldwater supported a number of admittedly extreme positions in 1964 , including the possible use of tactical nuclear weapons in Vietnam . Lyndon Johnson 's ad " Merely Another Weapon " used this statement to raise the specter of nuclear annihilation , a crucial anxiety at the time . <p> When George McGovern dropped Thomas Eagleton as his running mate after declaring his " 1,000 percent " support for the candidate , he opened himself to charges of being a " flip-flopper , " as shown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ variation on a common theme . <p> Jimmy Carter 's ad " Flipflop " is an example of the ineffectiveness of his attempts to portray Ronald Reagan as a warmonger . The ad showed that a statement about nuclear proliferation made by Reagan during the presidential debate in late October was contradicted by a statement he made at a news conference in January . However , the point was too subtle , and Reagan 's manner too reassuring , to make the attack stick . <p> Much more effective was the George Bush 1988 ad " Tank Ride , " which turned a staged photo opportunity by the Dukakis campaign into a public-relations disaster , ridiculing the notion of Dukakis as commander in chief . Here , it was n't the candidate 's words that backfired , but a photo opportunity . <p> Attacks on Bill Clinton 's integrity were a staple of Bob Dole 's 1996 campaign . With the economy in good shape , Dole instead focused on questioning Clinton 's character , with such ads as " Riady , " which used statistics to rebut claims made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ <p> Al Gore was frequently mocked by his opponents and the media in 2000 for supposedly claiming that he had invented the Internet . Gore 's statements are the target of sarcasm in the ad " Really MD . " <p> The ultimate flip-flop ad used the elitist sport of windsurfing as the perfect visual metaphor for the idea of a candidate whose positions shift according to the wind of political expediency . <p> On September 15 , the day of the Lehman Brothers bank collapse and a 500-point drop in the Dow Jones average , John McCain said at a campaign event that " the fundamentals of our economy are strong . " The Obama campaign seized on this instantly , releasing an

@@5038641 <h> Analysis &; Opinion <h> Related Topics <p> CHICAGO ( Reuters ) - Exchange-traded index funds are a bit like mobile phones -- models offer an increasing array of features over time , while prices on even the plain-vanilla models keep falling . <p> So , in step , prices have been dropping lately on garden-variety ETF index expenses . Typically these have offered rock-bottom costs on most products , relative to actively managed mutual funds . Yet there are several components of ETF pricing , so you need to be careful . You could miss some of the nuances and pay more than you should . <p> The good news is that competition is forcing expense ratios down to **26;5596;TOOLONG levels . Now you can pay roughly what big money managers do for entire baskets of stocks , bonds and other vehicles . ( An expense ratio is what a money-management firm charges you every year for owning their ETFs -- a percentage based on assets under management . Generally , the lower the expense ratio , the better , since more of your money is being invested and not going into the manager 's pocket . ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discount broker Charles Schwab , which recently reduced fees by up to 59 percent on its 15 ETFs , which hold more than $7 billion in assets . Schwab is trying to play catch-up with the three giants in the field -- Blackstone/iShares , State Street 's SPDRs and Vanguard Group -- which offer an even wider selection of low-cost ETFs . <p> Expenses on Schwab funds range from 0.04 percent for its Multi-Cap Core Fund to 0.20 percent for its International Small/Mid-Cap Growth fund . How does that compare with previous levels ? Expenses on the Mid-Cap ETF were cut in half , from 0.13 percent to 0.07 percent , while others were trimmed by as little as 0.02 percentage points . <p> While this sounds like counting pennies , it makes a difference over time . Say you had a large-company stock fund in your 401(k) , had $100,000 invested and were paying 1 percent annually . Drop that expense to 0.04 percent and you 'd have $107,000 more if your fund returned 5 percent annually over 30 years , according to the Securities and Exchange Commission 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's calculator shows money lost to expenses and forgone earnings -- gains you would 've made if expenses were lower . <p> If expense ratios were all you needed to scout when buying an ETF , I would suggest that you buy the cheapest index ETFs possible to cover stock , bond , real estate and commodities markets across the world . But here 's what else you need to consider : <p> 1 . Look at the bid/ask spread . <p> Since ETFs are traded on exchanges , the spread is the difference between the highest and lowest prices for buying and selling . Generally , the smaller , or " tighter , " the spread , the better for you , the investor . Higher bid/ask spreads mean you 're paying a premium for ETFs , which adds to your transaction costs . According to the website Indexuniverse.com , which tracks index funds , bid/ask spreads on the Schwab group , for example , are as high as 0.12 percent for the Schwab International Equity ETF . When you 're shopping for ETFs , look for the funds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ little as a penny for large ETFs such as the Vanguard S &P; 500 ETF . <p> 2 . How large is the average capitalization of the securities within the ETF ? <p> ETFs containing megacap blue-chip stocks generally have the tightest bid/ask spreads because the stocks within the fund are highly liquid . As you get lower down the food chain into thinly traded small-cap or international stocks and other vehicles such as real estate investment trusts , the bid/ask spreads widen . <p> 3 . How closely does the ETF track an underlying index ? <p> Some track more closely than others . ETFs following large , widely followed indexes such as the S &P; 500 should be really close to the underlying benchmark . If they do n't track an index closely -- more than 0.10 percent variation is a warning sign -- that means you 're veering further away from the total return on your chosen basket of securities . <p> 4 . What kind of trading commission are you paying ? <p> Since ETFs are securities traded on an exchange , you have to go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ online brokers typically offer the lowest commissions , but many large mutual-fund managers offer commission-free ETFs on a select group of ETFs , which are typically their most popular funds . <p> As you become more discerning about the total cost of ETF ownership , consider replacing actively managed mutual funds in your retirement and other portfolios such as 529 college savings plans with ETFs . <p> A good place to start is your 401(k) portfolio . Under new Department of Labor disclosure rules , your employer is required to disclose the expense ratios and the actual dollar amounts you pay for each fund in your plan . How much are you paying and how much can you save ? <p> If you 're paying more than 0.50 percent annually for any fund , it 's time to ask your employer to find lower-cost funds . Since it 's likely that you 're paying the expenses on the funds within your portfolio , any savings you can reap can help improve your total performance . As I 've illustrated above , even seemingly small cuts in expenses can help you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a Reuters columnist and the opinions expressed are his own . For more from John Wasik see link.reuters.com/syk97s ) ( Editing By

@@5038741 <p> Google+ is now allowing the creating of business pages . Previously Google+ was only open to individuals . Now you can create a business page for your brand on Google+ . Since Google basically owns search and all their other properties like YouTube , Blogger.com and Google Places get priority in search it would not be a bad idea to have a Google+ business page in addition to your personal profile . <p> However , to start with Google+ you first need to create a personal profile . It is from within the personal profile that the business page is created . Here is an article telling you how to get started with Google+ . <p> To create a Google+ business page you need to go here . If you are not logged into your Google account you will be prompted to do so . <p> The first thing you need to do is to pick a category . You have a choice of 5 main categories . <p> 1 . Local Business Or Place- This is generally for local brick and mortar businesses like hotels , restaurants , local stores and services that focus on the local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matches an existing Google Places page it will take the information from the Google Places page . If not , you need to fill out the information for your business . <p> Note : I have noticed that in some markets Google+ business pages were given priority listing for local search where there were not already a lot of Google Places pages . The Google+ pages were ranking first for local search above the regular natural listings . So local businesses should really pay attention to Google+ and create a business page . Check out these search results for " Doctors Mumbai " . One of the Google Places listings is a Google+ page . The Google+ page generally goes to the about section so make sure you fill this section out completely and include your keywords . <p> 3 . Company Institution or Organization -- This is for different types of organizations , including but exclusively non-profits . <p> 4 . Arts Entertainment and Sports <p> 5 . Other -- If you do not feel your page fits into any of the above categories you can choose ' Other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must also choose whether your page 's content is suitable for any Google+ user , users 18 or older , users 21 or older or specifically note that the content will be alcohol-related . I have seen edgy adult related sites on Google+ so it seems Google+ is allowing some adultish content because they are asking you to identify such content when you register your page rather than outright banning it . <p> This is all I could find in Google+ TOS : " Further , we may not allow verification of local Google+ pages for certain products and services such as escort services or other regulated goods . " The door looks cautiously open on this subject . <p> Customize Your Page 's Public Profile <p> Now you need to customize your page 's public profile . This is important . Make sure you fill everything out completely . Use your keywords without stuffing . Tell everything about your business , including relevant links . Do not just skip quickly over this section . The information here is what will be used to find you in search . Chances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ main website so pack this section with relevant info . <p> 1 . Add your profile photo and tagline . <p> 2 . Edit your page information . Click on the profile icon at the top left then go to the About tab and edit profile . Include as much information and as many appropriate links as possible . <p> 3 . Add your Photostrip . The photostrip are the five photos that will be displayed beneath your page 's name and tagline . While editing your profile , click on the photo area where it says " add photos here " and upload a photo in each of the five photo spots . <p> Your business page is now ready ! You can start adding posts and content to this page just like you did with your personal Google+ profile . Once you have filled your page with some quality content you can use the " Spread the word " option in your right sidebar to announce your page to your personal profile connections . <p> The big difference between a Facebook fanpage and a Google+ business page is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ add them to your circles . This allows for more interaction and more interaction with those specifically interested in one topic . <p> Anytime Google comes out with a new online property it 's a good idea to find a way to make use of it . As this article says , Google gives it 's own properties preferential treatment in it 's search results . <p> I have been wondering how and when to do a Google+ page for our business . This easy description encourages me to take the step . With a Facebook page and a LinkedIn page to manage as well as our website and related blog adding another vehicle has just seemed too much challenge . This description takes some of the challenge away . Now on with the work . <p> Thanks for this incredibly useful article ! I 've already started a business page for a client , and I 'm sure I 'll be making many more . <p> I do wonder why Google forces you to upload videos , when they now own YouTube . Would n't it just be simpler @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It 's rather time-intensive to upload them all again , but I 'm sure the SEO benefits will be worth it . <p> Good luck Lee . I am glad this is simplifying the process . I know that it is a bit much trying to manage all these social media accounts . I am starting to set up Google+ business pages for each of my sites . Might as well have another representation of your brand on Google . <p> @Trey Collier Nice info on the contributor code . I found this for the vanity urls http : //gplus.to/ but it looks more like a shortener which would not necessarily have the same seo effects as a real google keyword vanity url like with Facebook . <p> @Matthew Meyer Yes , that is a currently a way to get a " temporary " vanity URL . It 's a basic 301 redirect from a non-sponsored Google company and not what is supposed to be coming down the pipe from what I understand . <p> Oh . I previously mentioned that author 's should like their posts to the individual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ " Author " tags , your G+ account should link back to your content in the Profile where you " Contribute " and the little picture that shows up in the SERPs will only show up if you have established a 2-way Authorship ( or 3 way , but beyond scope here ) AND the primary image of your personal account IS a RL image of a face . <p> Do a search for ' Coolaroo shade sail ' and you should see my pic show up on the SERPs . I 've recently established authorship . When the pic shows up , it draws the searchers attention to it , and from what others report , increases Click Thru Rates of about 28% . <p> I mention this as I see that your profile pic is that of your Book and now of your face ( Matthew Meyer ) <p> PS : Two individuals on Google+ for their expertise are AJ Kohn , and Mark Traphagen . I 'd highly suggest ANYONE circle these two and read their posts on " Google Authorship " or " Author Rank " @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my profile photo to a real photo . I also added my own blog to the contributor area . I will read up according to your recommendations to learn more about authorship . I believe you about the clickthrough rates . I have been seeing posts with the photos and I am much more inclined to click on those . Thank you ! <p> I would say at least 95% of these Google Places listings break Quality Guideline rules and nothing is done about it . <p> Even though my clients on Google Places are ranking very well , I often hesitate to offer it to new clients , in fact I dread it because of the BS involved . You follow the quality guideline rules , then you get " We currently do not support that location " . But the listing is active and the verification postcard came to the very business location that G says it 's not supporting . Go figure . <p> So , I 'll just monitor this newest G play gadget before offering it to my clients .

@@5038841 <h> It Happened To Me <h> I Was a Dear Friend of the Woman " Sons of Anarchy " Star is Suspected of Murdering <p> Hollywood legend Catherine Davis rented me -- and many other actors -- rooms in her home throughout her life . Johnny Lewis is n't accused of murdering an 81-year-old woman . He is accused of murdering a saint . <p> An early ' 80s headshot of Taylor Negron at 24 , the age when he first moved in as a young actor into the " Writers Villa " run by Catherine Davis . <p> If you look at initial reports of the death of Johnny Lewis -- the " Sons of Anarchy " actor and , as all the media outlets have made sure to note , the ex of Katy Perry -- the name of the woman he is accused of brutally and horrifically murdering is not even mentioned at all . <p> Her name is Catherine Davis . And she is a Hollywood legend . A near saint . <p> And a kind and loving mother to so many , including me . <p> A writer , artist and entrepreneur , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . " This could maybe be used to describe her bones . <p> Cathy Davis was a woman of astounding energy and clear-minded self-creation . The house she rented to accused killer Johnny Lewis -- and to me , Parker Posey , Thomas Jane , Chris Parnell , Paula Poundstone , and so many others -- was known to us as the " Writer 's Villa . " It is located in an affluent part of Los Feliz and was built in 1927 to resemble a Villa in Spain or Italy . The original bathrooms of Malibu tile still exist , reflected by the beveled mirrors in the medicine cabinet . Hand-painted pink . Turquoise and lemon yellow ceramic tiles are inlaid in the sunny staircase that is at the center of the house leading to a carved door that is always open . <p> Born into humble roots in Texas , Cathy made sure she got into UCLA and there flourished in that atmosphere of 1950s Los Angeles where endless possibilities and vacant lots and a lot of handiwork led to a dream fulfilled . <p> Marrying and having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dream house on that gentle hill . The marriage dissolved and the feminist movement took hold and Cathy became what I always called a " Sesame Street feminist . " Bold and colorful , simple , direct . Easy . She understood how to flatter men , but was never taken hostage . These were the women who raised my generation -- equal pay for equal work . Independent with the smarts on their sleeves . This quintessentially modern California lady living life on her own terms , armed with only a stack of Sunset Magazines and 100-watt smile . <p> The ad I answered in The LA Times when I was in my early twenties , read " rooms to rent in Villa . " I went there to see . At this point I was making money from acting in movies and needed to settle down and start thinking about buying my own home . <p> " Well , " Cathy said in her pert Texas twinch , " you 're in the right place . I am a real estate agent , and we will find you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she used the royal " we . " Hollywood is usually more about " me " than " we . " I knew nothing about mortgages or equity . <p> " Your job is to be an artist , to tell jokes , " she told me . <p> I made Cathy laugh intensely . That is the greatest gift of all that I treasure . <p> When we make others laugh , the tension grinds away , and the moment is balanced . The " me " becomes a " we . " <p> Those of us , that fraternity that lived at the Villa , understoond that . They were the sum of our parts . <p> I took the room on the right upstairs with a large rounded fireplace and a view of succulents hemmed by aromatic sumac bushes . These native plants give off a slight aroma like gasoline . Clean and startling . Over time , I would move in and out of the Villa while Cathy looked around for my first home . She was quick to tell me I was home and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The door was always open , and soon I found that my boyhood friend Val Kilmer was living in one of the rooms , and there we had parties with serious actors like George Clooney and his then wife Talia Balsam . Paula Poundstone lived there . <p> Over time , I stayed in every room in the house and became a part of that household , made up of equally eccentric types that came to Lowey Road to stay while in artistic transit or retreat . Cathy was always catering meals for us from local restaurants and long after I moved out , I would attend these long dinners on her flagstone terrace where you would meet Dutch movie stars or violin soloists from Japan . Actors and writers put their best face forward as Cathy demonstrated to them that their dreams were not far from reach . <p> Her daughter Margaret Davis began writing award-winning books , biographies of prominent Los Angeles figures and families . Proud and pleased , we all were included in Margaret 's publishing events . This was her talent . Making you interesting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always the writer and reader , began writing her own historical biography on the " Life of Phoebe Apperson Hearst , " mother of William Randolph Hearst . She was working on the book in her room when she was murdered . <p> The screams echoing in the canyon . I play it over in my head now . Why was she screaming ? No one will ever know , because now the players are gone . Was it because this creature tenant that had rented a room from her came in carrying her now dismembered beloved cat ? The rhythm of murder is always different . It 's like the pre-death rattle . <p> The creature -- Johnny Lewis -- was one of the actors that Cathy rented to . She rented him my old room with metal casement windows that cranked open with perfect symmetry . That room was always dry , and when it did not smell of sumac it smelt of dirt -- dusty grass-fed dirt . <p> The text I received the day she was murdered was chilling and all-caps : " TEXT ME ASAP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ? " I was standing in that back garden of my apartment on West 82nd Street . <p> " Our sweet Miss Cathy has been murdered . " <p> The breath , the support system of all life is the first thing that changes when the utterance of death is heard . The breath increases . Rising in failed attempts to bring air to the brain to rectify the mistake that has been made in the hearing . Murder ? <p> My ears " heard " that Cathy Davis was murdered by someone who was in her house . This was a few hours after the crime and no one was sure of what the motive for the crime was . <p> I scanned the Web and saw that the actor from " Sons of Anarchy " was dead . I did not read the article , as I no longer consider these people actors . Knowing full well that they came to Hollywood to be famous and party . To get DUIs and pay their anorexia-enabling stylists to mask the ravages of their marionette chains . They are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the creature that is suspected of murdering my 81-year-old friend , and he lived in my old room . <p> The screams may have come from when Cathy saw her cat brutalized and torn apart . The screaming stopped when she was reportedly hit from above on the back of the head with a two-by-four . <p> She died with the freshly edited Chapter 6 spread out on the bed . Her coffee and cereal bowl untouched by the violence . <p> The monster with the cute face is suspected of then beating up the workers next door , pulling one painter off a ladder and hurting him . <p> The monster then allegedly destroyed all of Cathy 's art . Her hand-painted folkloric sculptures and Mexican Wedding candelabras that were used in the annual Christmas Decoration parties that we had at the Villa on the holidays . <p> The monster then allegedly destroyed all the mirrors in the house , and believing he could fly , jumped off the terrace and landed headfirst on the cement driveway where we all parked when we unloaded our luggage or drinks for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Not loud . I do n't remember music . Only talk and stories of people from other places describing new things and new places . <p> Then the monster 's head shattered . Like , I imagine , a rotten melon . <p> The monster was allegedly on a synthetic drug and was released

@@5038941 <p> From the photographer who snapped this : " In the street of Seattle there was this random woman who walked pass us and noticed we were literally gazing at her camera . She let us to look at it and here 's the picture of it . It IS a real camera that takes pictures . An artist whose name I unfortunately do n't know decorated

@@5039041 <h> share this story <p> Last year , the president of the largest atheist organization in the United States spoke to a group of students organized for the 2011 Secular Student Alliance leadership conference . A focal point of his talk on the future of atheism was the idea of a " sleeping giant , " or what he called the " 30 percent under 30 " -- the nonreligious Americans who would shape the future of our national discourse on religion . <p> Though that figure was slightly off -- under the most recent survey figures available last year , 25 percent of Americans under 30 were religiously unaffiliated , and only about 7 percent of them identified as atheist or agnostic -- the statement was oddly prescient . This week , the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life released their most recent figures , revealing that the number of people who identify as religiously unaffiliated is growing rapidly -- particularly among people born in the 1980s and 1990s . So the nonreligious do indeed seem poised to assist in shaping the future of religious discourse , but perhaps not in the way some might have predicted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the United States have noted for several years now that the percentage of the American public that does n't affiliate with a religious tradition is growing at an astonishing rate , but even they may be surprised by Pew 's latest findings . The percentage of Americans with no religious preference , often referred to as the " nones , " has grown nearly 5 percentage points in the last five years to include about 1 in 5 Americans . For Americans under 30 , the growth has been even more pronounced -- to nearly 1 in 3 . <p> There are many possible reasons people might disaffiliate from religion . Some simply stop believing in religious claims -- sure enough , 12 percent of the " nones " identify as atheist and 17 percent identify as agnostic . But for many , their lack of religious affiliation may have more to do with identity politics than belief . In fact , the majority of the religiously unaffiliated seem to carry some beliefs associated with religious thinking . Sixty-eight percent of nonreligious Americans claim to believe in a god or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ atheists and agnostics ) , and 40 percent pray at least once a month . Still , if we hope to understand this notable shift away from religion in American life , and where this growing demographic stands , we need to start including them in the conversation about religion and values . And that means believers and nonbelievers need to start paying attention . <p> In a time when debates about same-sex marriage , reproductive rights , capital punishment , epidemic hunger and even Big Bird dominate American discourse -- frequently bolstered by the language of " morality " and " values " -- it is of paramount importance that we understand the values held by the religiously unaffiliated . With an astonishing degree of ignorance about religious diversity in the United States , and a quickly emerging group with an ambiguous standing toward religion , the need for dialogue and education is only growing . As the number of religiously unaffiliated people climbs , and a younger generation becomes a more influential voice in society , it will become necessary to include and understand these voices in our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ certainly insightful , another way -- perhaps one of the best ways -- to better understand the " nones " is by directly engaging them in dialogue on the grassroots level . Over the last several years , the number of nonreligious people participating in interfaith dialogue has grown significantly ; the Secular Student Alliance reported that 1 in 5 of their college and university affiliate groups participated in interfaith programs in 2011 , and Interfaith Youth Core consistently works with atheists , agnostics and the religiously unaffiliated . This trend must continue . Religious individuals and communities should be proactive about reaching out to the religiously unaffiliated , and inviting them to share their perspectives in a way that does n't patronize them or discount their experiences and ideas . The Pew study is perhaps one of the strongest indicators we 've seen that moving toward a more constructive dialogue between the religious and nonreligious is urgent . The religious and the religiously unaffiliated ( including atheists and agnostics ) surely share many common values , and now is the time to begin to identify them . <p> How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put forward by the Pew survey is n't entirely clear , and the " nones " seem to have a complicated relationship with organized religion . Though about 70 percent of them think religious organizations are too involved with money and politics , about 80 percent think that religious organizations help bring people together , build communities , and play an important role in helping the poor and those in need . To quote from Pew 's report : " a majority of the religiously unaffiliated clearly think that religion can be a force for good in society . " <p> These " nones " are n't likely to think that we 're a Christian nation , but they also are n't likely to think that churches , mosques , synagogues , temples and the like are obsolete . They recognize that religious communities and individuals are an active , relevant force in our society -- and often , an extremely positive one -- even if they do n't align themselves with a particular tradition . Because they seem unlikely to identify with the values or behaviors of religious fundamentalists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their voice feels like a new one . And in an age seemingly defined by polarization and tribalism , a potentially transformative one . <p> Alan Miller hopes for a humanist culture full of " inspiring alternatives " that " inspire and engage , " and in which people 's ethics and behaviors are built on , as he puts it , " something beyond themselves . " It seems to me that this will require making room for SBNRs . <p> Atheism+ is an exciting movement . I 'm looking forward to seeing it grow and evolve . We can use this opportunity to bridge divided worlds , build interfaith coalitions and make social justice campaigns stronger . <p> OK , church folks . Fasten your seatbelts . But do n't hunker down . There 's a new study out that shows that one in five Americans has no religious affiliation . Not Baptist , not Catholic , not Lutheran , not Jewish , not Muslim . <p> There is within this new emergence an affinity for those matters of social and personal justice , compassion , spiritual wholeness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These were the obsessions of Jesus while here on earth . <p> Selecting a superficial mixture of " nice-feeling " items from Yoga to a slice of Zen and a moment of Tao is hardly progressive as far as options for humanity is concerned . They have jettisoned the hard work , diligence and observation of organized religion for a me-me-me what-ever kind of lifestyle <p> Reflecting on the recent religiously rooted violence in Libya and Cairo , the Dalai Lama seems to be calling for a space of ethical and spiritual help us to keep this a safe and supportive place for writers of all ages to contribute . <p> As an atheist , I really appreciate the work you all are doing to bridge the gap between the religious and non-religious . We 'd all be a lot better off if we just treated each other like human beings and stopped worrying about what god a person does or does n't follow . Keep up the good work ! <h> Loading comments ... <p> " Religious individuals and communities should be proactive about reaching out to the religiously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ How about atheists reach out to " religious individuals and communities " and let them know they can be good without superstition and that they can join a local secular group . <p> AndrewHall : " Religious individuals and communities should be proactive about reaching out <p> As for the 5 percentage point rise , we were referencing the rise in religiously unaffiliated in the last 5 years ( from about 15 to about 20 ) , not specifically atheists and agnostics . <p> We know it 's sometimes hard to keep these groups straight , but we tried to fact check all of our stats pretty thoroughly . <p> I was wrong , though , to claim American Atheists were the largest atheist organization in the U.S. ; it might be if we understood it pretty narrowly , but AA has membership in the low 4 figures or so , whereas say , FFRF has membership around 16,000 . <p> hpbloggerVlad Chituc : Thanks for the comment , dschiff . We were first specifically referencing <h> Loading comments ... <p> If you could convince those that were interviewed that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ denied the existence of God , I bet they would say , " nah , well in that case , we never saw any evidence of the existence a God but we were afraid to say so just to be safe " . <h> Loading comments ... <p> There 's another subset of the population out there that I 've noticed becoming more visible . They 're not religiously unaffiliated in the larger sense ( subscribing to no religious belief ) but they 're unaffiliated within the scope of Christianity , usually referring to their church as " non-denominational " . <p> I 've often wondered if the popularity of these " mega " churches is a reflection of the desire to participate in some kind of faith/worship services but without the obligation to subscribe to specific creeds or policies . Perhaps it 's easier to stomach an hour or two of " God loves me and everyone " sung by a contemporary band than it is to sit through a berating " turn or burn " speech or squirming uncomfortably when the officiant insults their gay friends with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ communities could n't be described as agnostics or atheists , they are " unaffiliated " to a certain extent . They 're Christian , but not Baptist , Lutheran , Catholic , etc . <h> Loading comments ... <p> I fear a 5% change in the demographic percentage of believers each year is not enough to offset all the anti rationality of the current religious nutcases who " believe " the earth is under 10000 years old and whatnot . <h> Loading comments ... <p> I 've always been a " none , " but became even more none-ish when I was shunned by my Uncle ( and not allowed to associate with my cousins ) for not converting to Jehovah 's Witness at the age of 10 , and then shunned again by my brother and his wife for not converting to Evangelical Born-Againness ( and kept from my nieces and nephews ) . <p> So you ca n't just let people live their own lives , you 've got to break ties with your relatives who you ca n't convert . I 'm pretty sure that had the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'm an atheist now ( not just because of that , but it helped ) . <h> Loading comments ... <p> " nonreligious Americans who would shape the future of our national discourse on religion . " <p> National discourse on religion ? I was n't aware that we have one . What is this discourse supposed to accomplish ? <p> " As the number of religiously unaffiliated people climbs , and a younger generation becomes a more influential voice in society , it will become necessary to include and understand these voices in our broader national discourse . " <p> Oh , I think I see . Let me guess ... the people best able to lead that discourse , might they be " interfaith activists " ? <p> See , I think Chris is wrong . It 's not going to be necessary to include those voices in our national dialog ; rather , it 's going to be impossible to EXclude them . They 're going to speak up and they 'll explain themselves -- we do n't need to hire spokesmen for them . <p> Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it seems pretty simple to me . Because you 're free to chose your religion , all its tenets are just your personal opinions . The statements , " In my opinion we should increase Welfare benefits " and " My faith tells me we should increase Welfare benefits " are identical . Anyone who pretends the latter deserves more weight than the former deserves scorn and ridicule . <p> And that 's where atheists come in . In growing numbers , we 're ridiculing the notion religious beliefs deserve more respect than any other opinion . And that 's the direction we 're pushing our " national discourse on religion . " The goal is a society where evidence , not creed , substantiates your opinions . <p> wbthacker : " nonreligious Americans who would shape the future of our national <h> Loading comments ... <p> I hope you have read Marcel Gauchet 's THE DISENCHANTMENT OF THE WORLD . His interpretation of history in the West is that everything began to change around 1700 , with the scientific revolution . Our governments began to play the role @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and of identity from our national identity . As of 1800 , religion 's hold on people gradually let go . No chance that will be reversed in the West . <p> However , substituting citizen identity for religious identity just presents the same problems in a different light . I have not studied " civil religion , " but it faces issues of nihilism and alienation , as can be seen with the rise in social conflicts . Insofar as secularism is understood in terms of religion , and it is , we have new wine in old wineskins . <p> Compare it to so-called " independent " voters , who do not depend on a political party for information but must rely on the mass media or special interest groups . Except for public broadcasting , the mass media is selling political information as well as commercial products . " Independent " voters are forced to decide whose lies to believe . So it is likewise with the religiously " unaffiliated . " Better referred to as " uninformed . " <p> There always have been " social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ " form and the " Religious establishment " provided often the " correct " answers to these conflict : That is " this world order is God 's will for mankind " . Just who exactly the majority of pastors and top catholic priests side with in the States ? ? ? The 99% ? No . The 1% . It 's always the " heretical " ( read : minority ) churches or religious movements which sided or were " pro " poors : the Early church , the Anabaptists , the " Liberation " church even the 2rise2 of Islam in the west is I believe mor of a social protest than a uniquely religious quest . <p> I am in my eighth decade , so I recall a world where the population was less than half of what we have now . I see a slow but steady deterioration underway . I see lots of individuals who are working to make life better , but I do not see much in the way of making " the system " better . Our systems are crumbling . <p> @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for tomorrow is to prepare ourselves for a likely long and painful period of human suffering on a scale we find unbearable . Even an abrupt change in the direction of caring for humans will not prevent the short-term suffering . <p> I do n't know if organized religion in the West is listening . Yes , the pope 's last encyclical called for social justice . But if it is government , rather than private religion and charities , that determines our lives , and if it is the people in democracy that govern , the evidence that we can learn from our mistakes is flimsy at best . We are in a new dark ages of global civil war . Sure , religion made lots of

@@5039141 <p> It means that morality is a trait of humans alone . Other animals do n't think about whether it is right or wrong to kill ... they kill to live , or out of fear , or to protect themselves from being killed . They sometimes do n't have a special affection for their children , and will sometimes leave one to starve in order to help the others survive . Things like that . Humans worry about morality , other forms

@@5039241 <h> Project Runway ( 2004 -- ) <p> Heidi Klum hosts a reality series where aspiring fashion designers compete for a chance to break into the industry . Each week , a designer is eliminated from the competition after exhibiting their work in front of a judges ' panel . <h> Storyline <p> Heidi Klum hosts a reality series where aspiring fashion designers compete for a chance to break into the industry . Each week , a designer is eliminated from the competition after

@@5039341 <h> Storyline <p> Grace Bichon , who is managing her father 's riding-stable , discovers that her husband Eddie deceives her with another woman . After confronting him in the middle of the night on the streets of their small home town , she decides to stay at her sister Emma Rae 's house for a while , to make up her mind . Breaking out of her everyday life , she starts to question the authority of everyone , especially her father 's , thus causing a stir in her parent 's Sound Mix : <h> Color : <h> Aspect Ratio : <h> Did You Know ? <h> Trivia <p> The movie was supposed to be called " Grace Under Fire " , but that was rejected because of Grace Under Fire . So the movie was eventually named after the song " Something To Talk About " , popularized by Bonnie Raitt . The version in the movie is sung by Therese Willis . The song was composed by Lisa Dalbello . See more <h> Goofs <p> Audio/visual unsynchronized : During the dance scene , after the big show , the band and singers do not match @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Quotes <p> Wyly King : I may have fooled around

@@5039441 <h> Open Letter To Kansas School Board <p> I am writing you with much concern after having read of your hearing to decide whether the alternative theory of Intelligent Design should be taught along with the theory of Evolution . I think we can all agree that it is important for students to hear multiple viewpoints so they can choose for themselves the theory that makes the most sense to them . I am concerned , however , that students will only hear one theory of Intelligent Design . <p> Let us remember that there are multiple theories of Intelligent Design . I and many others around the world are of the strong belief that the universe was created by a Flying Spaghetti Monster . It was He who created all that we see and all that we feel . We feel strongly that the overwhelming scientific evidence pointing towards evolutionary processes is nothing but a coincidence , put in place by Him . <p> It is for this reason that I 'm writing you today , to formally request that this alternative theory be taught in your schools , along with the other two theories . In fact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if you do not agree to do this , we will be forced to proceed with legal action . I 'm sure you see where we are coming from . If the Intelligent Design theory is not based on faith , but instead another scientific theory , as is claimed , then you must also allow our theory to be taught , as it is also based on science , not on faith . <p> Some find that hard to believe , so it may be helpful to tell you a little more about our beliefs . We have evidence that a Flying Spaghetti Monster created the universe . None of us , of course , were around to see it , but we have written accounts of it . We have several lengthy volumes explaining all details of His power . Also , you may be surprised to hear that there are over 10 million of us , and growing . We tend to be very secretive , as many people claim our beliefs are not substantiated by observable evidence . <p> What these people do n't understand is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earth is older than it really is . For example , a scientist may perform a carbon-dating process on an artifact . He finds that approximately 75% of the Carbon-14 has decayed by electron emission to Nitrogen-14 , and infers that this artifact is approximately 10,000 years old , as the half-life of Carbon-14 appears to be 5,730 years . But what our scientist does not realize is that every time he makes a measurement , the Flying Spaghetti Monster is there changing the results with His Noodly Appendage . We have numerous texts that describe in detail how this can be possible and the reasons why He does this . He is of course invisible and can pass through normal matter with ease . <p> I 'm sure you now realize how important it is that your students are taught this alternate theory . It is absolutely imperative that they realize that observable evidence is at the discretion of a Flying Spaghetti Monster . Furthermore , it is disrespectful to teach our beliefs without wearing His chosen outfit , which of course is full pirate regalia . I can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can not describe in detail why this must be done as I fear this letter is already becoming too long . The concise explanation is that He becomes angry if we do n't . <p> You may be interested to know that global warming , earthquakes , hurricanes , and other natural disasters are a direct effect of the shrinking numbers of Pirates since the 1800s . For your interest , I have included a graph of the approximate number of pirates versus the average global temperature over the last 200 years . As you can see , there is a statistically significant inverse relationship between pirates and global temperature . <p> In conclusion , thank you for taking the time to hear our views and beliefs . I hope I was able to convey the importance of teaching this theory to your students . We will of course be able to train the teachers in this alternate theory . I am eagerly awaiting your response , and hope dearly that no legal action will need to be taken . I think we can all look forward to the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ science classrooms across the country , and eventually the world ; One third time for Intelligent Design , one third time for Flying Spaghetti Monsterism ( Pastafarianism ) , and one third time for logical conjecture based on overwhelming observable evidence . <p> Sincerely Yours , <p> Bobby Henderson , concerned citizen . <p> P.S. I have included an artistic drawing of Him creating a mountain , trees , and

@@5039541 <p> More than a dozen members of a car club face traffic charges stemming from a Sunday drive through Augusta and Highland counties . <p> Police say a group of 15 to 20 sports cars was traveling recklessly Sunday morning on state Route 262 and U.S. 250 . <p> Augusta County Sheriff 's Deputy Trevor Ross tells The News Leader that the drivers were speeding , cutting off other motorists and passing over double lines . <p> Ross says the group was part of a Northern Virginia car club . <p> The Augusta County Sheriff 's Office says 15 vehicles were stopped at the Headwaters Post Office in Highland County by Virginia Conservation Police , the Highland County Sheriff 's Office and Virginia State Police . <p> More than 20 summonses were

@@5039641 <p> Hello ! Thanks so much for checking out my project . The idea is very simple . As a designer , I love creating logos . So , I thought it would be fun , and challenging , to do a project with the straightforward concept of creating a whole bunch of different logos for a whole bunch of different people , based on each person 's name . That 's it . Each backer will have a unique , custom and professionally designed logo created for them that represents their own name . Then , all of the logos will be displayed at namelogodirectory.com . Why a directory ? Because each logo will then link to a specific URL that the backer gets to choose ... It could be their own Facebook page , Twitter , website , etc. ( nothing obscene or inappropriate though ) . Depending on the number of backers , this project could be pretty huge . But in then end , I think it would be such a cool design piece to see hundreds of individual name logos displayed on the site together . Check out the examples images below , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . <p> About The Logos <p> As a design nerd , I 'm pretty picky about consistency . So , to give the final site a consistent look , I 'm planning for each logo to be displayed in black and white . Also , in the event that this project actually takes off and receives a lot of backers , I want to let everyone know in advance that the number of hours spent on each individual logo may be limited to an hour or two . Just imagine if for some crazy reason there were 500 people who backed this project , it could then potentially take 4 months , working 40 hours per week to finish all of the logos ... Which would be awesome ! ! ... But pretty challenging at the same time . However , I think that 's where the really interesting part of this project might come into play ... Designing consistently good logos in a limited amount of time probably wo n't be easy , but I 'm excited to push my inspiration and creativity to new limits . No matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I refuse to put out anything that looks bad with my name attached to it . <p> About The Funding <p> Overall , you can think of it this way ; Backers get a unique , custom designed logo , while I get a really sweet design project . Upon successful funding , I 'll reach out to each backer and ask that they submit a brief sentence or two about themselves from which I may draw inspiration for their logo design . <p> The reason I 'd like to raise at least $500 is so that there could potentially be at least 20 backers at the lowest funding level ... Otherwise , I 'm afraid that namelogodirectory.com might feel a little empty in the end , and it 's potential impact would be lost . <p> Thank You <p> If you want to learn more about me and my design skills , please visit brandoneck.com . Again , big thanks for taking the time to read this . I 'm excited to see what we can do ! <h> FAQ <p> Yes , backers will fully own their logo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'd like to with it ... This includes everything from getting it trademarked to even having it updated or edited by another designer if they should ever choose to do so . After the logo is designed , I 'll send backers a copy of the original design file , and also a copy of the file in a format that they can easily work with ( PDF , JPG , PNG , etc . ) . <p> I really went back and forth a lot with the idea of doing logos for companies/products as a part of this project before it launched , but in the end , I 've decided to stick with just name logos for now . However , I 'm planning to do a company/product logo project similar to this one next if this ends up being a success . <h> Pledge $25 or more <p> 173 backers <p> You 'll receive your very own unique , custom designed black and white name logo ( I 'll send you the actual file in your preferred format , EPS , AI , PSD , PDF , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at namelogodirectory.com and will link to the URL of your choice . <h> Pledge $50 or more <p> 27 backers <p> You 'll receive your very own unique , custom designed black and white name logo + Your logo will be displayed and highlighted at namelogodirectory.com where it will link to the URL of your choice + One color version of your logo ( we can discuss your color preferences ) . <h> Pledge $150 or more <p> 5 backers <p> Super Customization ! ! I will present you with three different name logo designs from which you may choose . You will then have the opportunity to offer feedback that will be taken into consideration for your final , full color , custom name logo design + One black and white version of your logo + Your logo will be displayed and highlighted at

@@5039741 <p> In honor of the last week of the Olympics , I would like to provide some thoughts on things I learned by watching the 2012 games this weekend . First , trampoline is an awesome sport . It 's bouncy and fun , but those athletes likely have rock solid abs from all those flips . Second , I love the Bryan brothers for this embrace after they won the gold medal in men 's doubles . Third , Usain Bolt is a beast . End of story . <p> Ministry of Supply Public Launch Party -- 5:30pm -- 8pm -- Ministry of Supply Showroom , 105 South St. -- Ministry of Supply , the local startup making wrinkle-free , antibacterial dress shirts and undershirts , is hosting its first showroom . Check out the shirts and enjoy wine and beverages . <p> Battle of the Burger -- 7pm -- 10pm -- Black Falcon Cruise Terminal -- Boston magazine is hosting a cook-off in honor of summer 's greatest food . Chefs and restaurants nominated for Boston 's best burger will craft up the fare , and guests will taste the burgers , weigh in and , at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Burger champion will be announced . <p> Network After Work Boston -- 6pm -- 9pm -- The Greatest Bar -- Network After Work hosts events to foster new professional connections from people of all industries . Check out their Boston event at The Greatest Bar this Wednesday . <p> Board Games and Beer at SoftArtisans -- 6pm -- SoftArtisans , Watertown -- SoftArtisans and Riparian Data are hosting their monthly pizza and board games night on Wednesday . Meet the team and enjoy a good time in Watertown . <p> Craigie Grower Gratitude Day -- Craigie on Main -- In honor of local , organic farmers , Craigie on Main is hosting a five-course meal this Wednesday , in which Chef Tony Maws has instructed his purveyors to not even think about delivering fish , herbs

@@5039841 <p> In an especially memorable moment in Clint Eastwood 's fine new film Invictus , South Africa 's first black president ( exquisitely portrayed by Morgan Freeman ) inspects his first official paycheck . <p> " This is terrible , " Mandela says . He decides he earns too much money and subsequently donates a third of his salary to charity . Thus was born the Nelson Mandela Children 's Fund . <p> Mandela 's humility and fiscal restraint would be as exotic in the nation 's capital as a giraffe atop the steps of the Lincoln Memorial . Washington , D.C. 's lavish self-aggrandizement and relentless march toward bankruptcy cruelly mock Mandela 's noble sacrifice . <p> Advertisement <p> Today 's thoughtless and corrosive spend-o-rama began under a Republican Congress and the feckless Bush-Rove administration . Despite candidate Barack Obama 's promise to scour the budget " line by line " for excess , today 's White House and Democratic Congress briskly outspend their predecessors . <p> In stunning contrast to Mandela 's example , the profligate Congress carpet-bombs taxpayer dollars on greedy federal bureaucrats -- even as Americans struggle , and often fail , to pay their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2009 , USA Today reported December 10 , the number of federal employees earning more than $100,000 annually increased 46 percent to 382,758 . Those making more than $150,000 rose 119 percent to 66,538 . Only one Transportation Department employee scored more than $170,000 as the recession began . By last June , that number had soared to 1,690 . <p> Meanwhile , federal salaries during the recession grew 6.6 percent and now average $71,206 . This far outran the 3.9 percent growth in paychecks for both those in state and local government ( average : $54,101 ) and those in the private sector ( average $40,331 ) . Big-government advocates weep that those who serve Uncle Sam do so for less than what they can earn at private companies . While this may be true for senators and cabinet secretaries , these data clearly show that typical federal employees make way more than the private workers who pay their bills -- in fact , 76.5 percent more . While Americans endure 10 percent unemployment and widespread economic anemia , for federal bureaucrats and their congressional enablers , this remains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . Washington has no apparent shame , nor self control , nor even a sense that it might be patriotic to snatch just a little less . Washington 's overriding principle seems to be that the American people can go to hell , so long as their tax payments keep coming . Bonnie and Clyde were mere shoplifters compared to today 's federal kleptocratic class . <p> Federal indulgence and incompetence are too vast to catalogue . But these illustrations are sufficiently maddening . <p> After Cash for Clunkers gloriously shipped $3 billion chiefly to Tokyo- and Seoul-based automakers , the Obama administration concocted Cash for Caulkers -- fresh subsidies to make homes more energy-efficient . This program likely will cost $2 billion to as much as $20 billion , if House Democrats prevail . So far , Texas has spent $1.8 million in federal funds and has weatherized seven homes , averaging $257,000 each . Instead , this money could have purchased 10.4 median-priced homes . <p> Congress sent President Obama a $447 billion , 2,442-page omnibus spending bill on December 14 . It ballooned federal spending 12 percent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contained 5,224 pork-barrel projects worth $3.9 billion , according to Taxpayers for Common Sense . These included $292,200 to eliminate blight in Scranton , Pa . ( Vice President Joseph Biden 's hometown ) and $700,000 for " Shrimp Industry Fishing Effort Research Continuation " in Silver Spring , Md . Despite Obama 's promises , these luxuries all survived , line by line , when he signed it December 16 . <p> Breaking the law that launched the Troubled Asset Relief Program , the House on December 16 misallocated $154 billion in repayments by TARP-funded banks . That money legally must finance deficit reduction . The Democratic House nevertheless channeled this cash to America 's fourth economic stimulus package . <p> Obama visited the Copenhagen climate conference December 18 and promised to muster up to $100 billion annually for 10 years to help developing nations battle the bogeyman of so-called " global warming . " This could equal $1 trillion in carbon-coated foreign aid . Even if other industrialized nations participate , it 's hard to imagine America funding less than 10 percent of this budget . That alone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ procedural vote on December 21 , the Senate 's 60-member Democratic caucus advanced a $2.5 trillion health " reform " that 61 percent of Americans oppose , according to CNN . Greased by Majority Leader Harry Reid 's taxpayer-funded bribes to wobbly Democrats , the bill 's final passage at dawn on Christmas Eve was engineered to approve the measure before senators faced pesky constituents back home who want to euthanize the bill . <p> The Treasury announced on Christmas Eve , and therefore buried , the news that it will give blank checks to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac for the next three years . In essence , the Treasury ( meaning you ) will pay the tab whenever Fannie or Freddie needs fresh capital . Rather than padlock these failed institutions and auction their parts , Treasury is weighing new cost estimates as high as $400 billion . <p> The Obama administration similarly whispered some big news at 4:30 p.m. the day before New Year 's Eve , just as Americans started to put their champagne on ice . The Treasury announced that it will inject $3.8 billion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pumped into the auto- and mortgage-finance company . The federal share of GMAC now rises from 35 percent to 56 percent . Thus , the taxpayers , including you , now own a majority stake in GMAC . We can add GMAC to Gettysburg and the Grand Canyon among America 's collectively owned jewels . <p> " The United States can not force foreign governments to increase their holdings of Treasuries , " warned Zhu Min , the People 's Bank of China 's deputy governor . As Shanghai Daily reported , Zhu recently told academics : " The world does not have so much money to buy more U.S. Treasuries . " <p> Washington 's relentless spending and resultant debt auctions prompted Moody 's to hint that America 's triple-A bond rating could disappear . It recently called U.S. public finances " resilient " -- not bad , but a notch below Canada , France , and Germany 's " resistant " rating . Beside America 's , their debt profile looks less like a junkie trolling for heroin . <p> One of 2010 's most intriguing questions will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ triggers the peaceful overthrow of the United States government . -- New York commentator Deroy Murdock is a columnist with the Scripps Howard News Service and a media fellow with the Hoover Institution on War , Revolution and Peace at Stanford University . <p> Came upon this reading . And there is a lot going on with to much greed . Debt . etc . And say it is really getting close to a revolt . But the people have n't had enough already

@@5039941 <h> Reviews <p> Appearance -- This one has a dark orange color from the caramel malts that offset the hops and heat of the habanero The head seem to suffer due to the oil of the pepper . <p> Smell -- A sweet malt smell with some citrus and pine hops and a hint of heat . <p> Taste - A good balance of hops and malt . The habanero adds just a little heat on the end . The heat lingers until the alcohol of the next sip cleans the palate and the cycle starts all over once again . <p> Mouthfeel -- This one is pretty much a straight up IPA . A little body but nothing you have to chew . <p> Overall -- A nice off side road off the standard IPA . This was the winner of the 2nd annual Bell 's Homebrew competition . It was a good beer . I can not wait until the winner of the next competition is on tap . <p> Burnt orange in color with a thin film of a head gentile carbonation . Smell is a bit dull but a citrusy hop and there is zero @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The taste is of a good ipa that is well balances and akin to two hearted it . There is still not even a hit of habinaro really untill the finish and when it does come through it lingers on the back of your tounge , delicious hot peppers . The mouth feel is light , sticky and crisp especially for a 7% beer . It definatly has some hanging power to stick around on

@@5040041 <h> What Do You Have to Say about " Trophy Inflation " and " Gamification " ? <p> An interesting e-mail from a reader/listener named Andrei Herasimchuk about what he calls " gamification " : <p> It 's a word and term that drives me nuts these days . I design software , and have done so for two decades now . Everyone is trying to add gamification features to their products these days in the tech industry . Think badges , achievements , and things normally found in a game like World of Warcraft . People in this industry lately seem to believe that these sorts of things drive engagement in their products . From everything I 've seen , and from influences of your work , I 'd assume what people really want to do is find ways to design incentives into products . Incentives versus Gamification ? What works better ? <p> Andrei ( and I ) would love to hear what you have to say on this question . I have a few superficial thoughts : <p> For some years now , it has struck me that we 're in an age of severe trophy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a trophy or medal ; <p> That said , I ( and my kids ) like trophies as much as the next people , so when you 're on the receiving end of a relatively meaningless award , it still feels better than zero ; additionally : <p> Winning even a virtual medal , as silly as it seems , is still fun , at least for me , as experienced for instance on the very , very excellent World Golf Tour game ; that said , I do n't know if I want such trinkets cluttering up a piece of financial or productivity software ; and lastly : <p> Who 's to say , per Andrei 's point , that " gamification " is n't a perfectly legitimate form of incentive ? <h> COMMENTS : 58 <p> The " everyone gets a trophy for just showing up " is why there are so many entitled idiots running around these days . <p> From half of the Occupy Wall Street crowd to 90% of high school and college kids today , they all think they deserve to be given things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dunham and have mommy 's connections to help us suddenly get our scripts produced despite having no experience or discernible talent . <p> Sorry kids , if you are n't born into it , those trophies you got just for playing are setting you up for a bitter disappointment later in life , when you realize only winners -- and the well connected -- get the trophy . <p> Not everyone gets a trophy for showing up . Some people get a trophy for doing well , others get a trophy for showing up , but the people who get the big trophies do not get the showing up trophy . <p> And that 's partly where the message is lost . The trophy should be used to reward the effort , sportsmanship , growth , experience , etc . You know , the reasons why you enrolled you brat in the sport in the first place . Instead , parents hand them out as if they 're pacifiers , and of course no good lesson is learned from this . <p> As for people who believe they should be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from any of my peers . They 're all eager to work , often times working for no reward just to have a chance at scraps further down the line . The people who really believe they should get something for nothing are the people whining about OWS and kids these days . They made a mess and then expect the kids to clean it up without offering the kids anything in return . <p> Sports programs aimed at very young children have n't kept score for decades , so this is n't a new idea for this generation . <p> There are two reasons for this . The first is that preschool and Kindergarten kids barely know how to count anyway , so the actual score is meaningless to them . ( T-ball does n't keep score . Little League baseball , which starts at age 7 , does keep score , except for programs designed for children with disabilities . ) We 're talking about kids who ca n't necessarily count a group of items and come up with the same number five times in a row . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an hour-long game ? <p> The other is that you want them to focus on individual outcomes ( did you catch the ball ? did you kick the ball ? did you throw the ball ? ) rather than overall , aggregated outcome by two whole teams , which is really beyond their cognitive ability . If the individual child did what he was supposed to , you do n't want that achievement swamped by " losing " because his best effort , in combination with poor performance by randomly selected teammates , was n't as good as the other team 's performance . <p> I agree with Honest Rob , there are a ton of entitled idiots running around . There 's an entire generation of people that want their social programs paid for and then cut before the next generation can take advantage of them ! These are the same people that continuously voted for politicians that increased government spending and decreased taxes during a boom economy , figuring that by the time the bill came due they 'd be dead . <p> Rob -- The fact that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kids today " shows how little you know about either subject . It serves a political end to belittle the protesters without addressing the substance of their protest -- that those at the top are exploiting their power and money to enrich themselves at the expense of the rest of society . That they did n't necessarily get where hey are solely by hard work , and now that they are there the rules are rigged in their favor . To attack them simply because they do n't wear suits and fit the corporate mold does not minimize the truth of their protest . I 'm a " late boomer " -- born in the early 60s and share little with their mainstream culture . I know lots of of school and college and kids and they do not expect things to given to them any more than the kids I knew in college . As a young person today you do n't have to be away from home very long to see how hard it will be to make it in the world . Good jobs that pay well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ graduates . In part because their parents can no longer afford to stop working , in part because so many good jobs that their parents and grandparents had have gone away . A sense of entitlement evaporates pretty quickly when you have to work a bad job and still ca n't make rent . <p> As a member of a generation who received all those participation trophies I cordially ask you to shut it . <p> We did n't ask for participation trophies . They were handed to us . We did n't demand to be told we were special . Our parents and teachers just did it . <p> Now people of the same generation that gave us trophies for showing up and told us we are special are mad because they think we 're entitled . We 're the ones who should be mad that they spent the first twenty years of our lives lying to us about how the world works leaving us unprepared for getting out on our own . Considering that , I 'd say we 're doing pretty well . <p> And OWS is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It 's about a system that rewards people who use their power to increase their own wealth and power at the expense of the rest of society . It 's about the wealthy using their money to convince politicians that if they give them more tax breaks and loopholes , they 'll use that money to create jobs , when they just really just use it to buy another house or hide it in a foreign account . It 's about how CEOs pay less in taxes than their secretaries . It 's about the idea that equality under the law should be more than a good idea . <p> Well , Elwin , in the first place , nobody 's mad at you . It just appears to all of us that things have gone dreadfully wrong , and we 're trying to figure out why , just as you are . Second , the generation that gave you trophies was counseled by the ' experts ' of a previous generation who told us that everything would be great if we just followed their instructions . They had many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did n't really understand , so we believed them . Your generation is a lot hipper to the notion that nobody really knows what they 're talking about &; everything has to be taken with loads of salt . We elders have had to learn that the hard way . Third , your final paragraph is right on . It 's not a generational thing at all . We 're all getting hustled , and trying to work out what to do about it . If I had space and time , I 'd go over some of the other ways we were lied to when we were young . Why , in my day there were even respectable people running around telling us that atomic radiation from bomb tests might be good for us . ( We did n't actually fall for that one , thank goodness . ) <p> I think gamification works really well when it is associated with education . It allows the students to see things such as science and mathematics in a more literal sense and it provides friendly competition . Children need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perfect job . You need to earn your way and beat ( win ) against people when interviewing . So with providing badges and trophies to students who ' win ' it 's a win for everyone involved because then they are being educated in the process . <p> Achievements in an isolated system probably wo n't do much , but XBox Live , Playstation Network , or Steam ones might very well actually motivate some people . There are whole communities devoted to earning this virtual trinkets , after all . Those communities may not overlap that much with , say , accounting software , though . Furthermore , there are many who prefer to isolate their social and work spheres . <p> Visual Studio ( the software development environment ) has achievements via a Microsoft-developed extension ( http : **35;5505;TOOLONG ... ) , but I 'm pretty sure they 're jokes , especially since they have achievements for bad coding practices and are very much not integrated with the Live system . <p> Steam obviously has an achievement system , and they 've recently announced they 'll be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . It 's quite possible that 'll result in some achievement-bearing productivity applications . <p> Personally , I think fitness and education are better targets for gamification . Use of productivity software is generally motivated by a conventional salary and benefits package , and that 's a heavyweight competitor ; there 's not much low-hanging fruit there . There may be some utility to be mined down the road , but , like paying for grades , it 's not a properly developed area yet . <p> I do think Andrei overstates the popularity of such initiatives . Also , it 's obviously a false contrast between incentives and gamification . <p> Gameification is just one part of Game Theory and as Game Theory is better understood by non-economists it does n't surprise me that we see more gameification . It is n't just tied to the software world , but it is no surprise to see it there first as many programers are also gamers . You see it being used more in schools than ever before as well . <p> I am an avid gamer . Have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( I do n't like the word and tend not to use it but for the sake of convenience ) is something I 've been pushing in our agency ( with not much effect I 'm afraid ) for some time . <p> It 's not really about the trophies per se , I find , but more about the completion of a specific challenge . There is something fundamental in human psychology that drives us to achieve these specific tasks , especially when we receive credit for them . XBox Live stumbled onto this early and I challenge you to buy a mainstream XBox game that now does n't include a wide array of achievements ( or ' cheevos ' as the community has dubbed them ) . <p> Gamification in advertising is the continuation of an inherent and increasingly sophisticated psychological trend that started with " making things look good " and has continued to develop through ' which colours make people feel hungry ' and research into other similar psychological phenomena . Gamification is in its early days , which is why most people managing advertising firms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be gamers ) do n't quite understand it yet , and have n't properly implemented it , but it is as inevitable as any other psychological insight that has been proven in the field . <p> Gamification is a legitimate form of incentives . All it requires is for the person earning the virtual trophy to feel incentivized by it . <p> More than that , however , this sort of gamification can improve the quality of some projects for those on the outside . For instance in a user-generated content system like Amazon 's reviews or a Q &A; site like Yahoo ! Answers or StackOverflow.com ( cf. http : **35;5579;TOOLONG ... ) , points/badges/trophies of respondents gives me a heuristic to quickly filter the responses by quality . A person with a higher rep and more badges is more likely to be right . <p> Obviously this can go awry . E.g. , the user might leave entirely positive Amazon reviews since those tend to get more " helpful " votes , enhancing one 's rep , and " not helpful " votes , bringing down one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to people who down-vote when they simply disagree with the content of a legitimate ( non-soapbox ) review . ( That rarely happens when one disagrees with an ebullient positive review . ) <p> Or the system can be explicitly " gamed , " e.g. , using sock puppets to pad one 's numbers -- as all the top dogs on Yahoo ! Answers have to do . <p> But on the whole badges are still useful to outsiders . <p> Speaking personally , I remember I longed for people to recognize my work on Wikipedia by awarding me a barn star on my talk page . I tried to give out barn stars to encourage others , and perhaps even inspire them to give me one in return ( that did n't work very well ) . <p> Actually , I use a website ( actually a group of them listed under stackexchange.com ) that completely rely on menaingless incentives . <p> The one I use the most is StackOverflow.com . It 's a software development QA site . You earn reputation points based on the quality of your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ points if you do n't word questions well , or do n't research the question well enough before posting . It 's completely community moderated and the points are awarded by members on the site . It 's a facinating model as you 'll find that people will spend much more time crafting a question and/or response in order to avoid losing points on your reputation . ( Loss Aversion anyone ? ) <p> New York City 's subways and buses carry roughly seven million passengers a day , which goes a long way toward explaining ... Read More <p> Bodger on A Perverse Incentive to Not Vote ? " Alaska has a good system now . They used to use multiple sources for compiling the jury list which involved IIRC voter registration , hunting and fishing ... " Read More <p> Ryan P on A Perverse Incentive to Not Vote ? " In Texas , all you have to do is write a hot check for $5 , and you are forever banned from jury duty ( assuming the D.A

@@5040141 <p> Watching the Steelers v. Raiders game , and I am absolutely flabbergasted that Ryan Mundy did not get a flag and thrown out of the fucking game for that hit on Darius Heyward-Bey . I hope the league office fines him steeply and suspends him for a couple games . It was clear helmet to helmet contact , and just a vicious illegal hit . On top of that , the illegal pick in the first quarter that took out the other Oakland cornerback temporarily , the missed call on the douchebag attacking Ben 's knees , the missed holding calls and everything else these refs have screwed up or missed , and this is just a fucking disgrace . These refs are as bad at calling games as David Gregory is at calling out Republican lies . <p> And yes , I know I am a Steelers homer , but this shit is unacceptable . And yes , I know it is a rough game , but these refs are going to get someone killed . This is n't about being a homer , this is about the integrity of the game and absolutely unnecessary violence . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ union busting efforts at the expense of these players makes me want to vomit . <p> Just unacceptable . No one is in control of the game . Fuck you Goodell . These are people and your most valuable commodity , and you are just willing to get them killed to save a paltry 200k team . God damned disgrace . <p> This entry was posted on Sunday , September 23rd , responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed . Both comments and pings are currently closed . <p> Well , as long as the players take the field , this will keep happening . It 's the players who are the key to this . It always has been . As long as they show up , there will be games . As long as there 's games , the owners will keep using shitty refs . As long as the players keep fucking the officials by not doing a solidarity strike or sick-out , this is what you 're going to keep getting . <p> But but but ... The refs want a pension plan and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , This fight for pensions has to start somewhere and if it 's with the refs , so be it . No more of the 401k for retirement plans . You wan na make money off my labor , you have to pay . <p> Just unacceptable . No one is in control of the game . Fuck you Goodell . These are people and your most valuable commodity , and you are just willing to get them killed to save a paltry 200k a year per team . God damned disgrace . <p> Your NFL owners . Galtian assholes , for the most part . Goodell is doing exactly what they want . <p> The Goodell legacy is about to be written as ' remember the time when that guy working the salad bar at Sizzler 's was the head linesman ? That sucked ! ' The NFLPA has a great letter to the commisioner as Pooh mentioned . <p> As a Raven 's fan , I was utterly appalled by that hit on Roethlisbeger by the Oakland defender . Not only should there have been a flag but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ! That hit was so fucking dirty I do n't know what the rule protecting QB 's was written for if that type of hit is allowed . <p> That 's what I do n't get . We fans and the teevee talking heads are all outraged about the league putting player safety at risk -- but the players union is in the best position to do something about it , and not a peep from them . Where the hell are they , and why are these union players crossing the picket line ? <p> I feel the dirty hits are on the players . They made the hits , and it is up to Goodell to stop it . The ref 's do n't have the legitimacy right now to do it and they just are n't good enough to do anything about it . <p> The thing that is unacceptable to me is simple counting ... like when it is 2nd down and calling it 3rd ... that just shows the incompetence . <p> @ Brian : The point is that the refs do n't have control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the end of the Redskins game last week when the Rams had been chippy with RG3 and the rest of the offense all game and then one guy finally reacts and gets a ( admittedly stupid ) penalty that costs them a shot at the game , but the point is that the real refs do n't let the tension escalate to that point of chippiness . If you allow dirty little shit on every player , then that grows pretty quickly into headhunting precisely because the players are n't being protected by the refs , so they take matters into their own hands , which just spirals . <p> Shitty refs do n't cause this behavior . Willing players do n't cause this behavior . WE cause this behavior by tuning in and buying tickets and by not demanding humane treatment for those that entertain us . If it 's that upsetting to you , take your money elsewhere . It really is just a game . <p> That NFLPA letter suggested that using the scab referees might be a violation of their contract with the league . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sympathy strike . I believe I 've heard that such a strike would normally be against the current contract , but their own strike over dangerous working conditions would get around that . <p> @ suzanne : No . I 'm guessing from your performance in previous threads on the topic that you 've never played a sport that involves physical contact , but the dirtiest games occur when the refs are n't in control . Pickup games are n't generally dirty because the players explicitly police themselves . Competently reffed games are n't generally dirty because the refs exert control and the players know that shit wo n't fly and are interested in winning more than they are in blowing someone up . In games where the refs have poor control , you can have both , plus there is the added emotion of the other guy cheap shotting you . <p> @ raven : Because you made a series of really stupid and nonsensical contrarian posts with absolutely no basis in reality . Normally your football posts are just stupid . These were more of the egregiously stupid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ league in Champaign-Urbana . Lot 's of high level former high school and college players . We had lots of problems with behavior and , one night , an ex big-10 lineman went after and official . In my capacity as the representative of the municipality , I stepped between them . This dude was going ape shit and screamed at me " we play each other every Sunday and we never have any problems . We get these goddamn refs in here and it goes to shit " . I quoted him verbatim when I made my report to the board urging that we end the program . We did . <p> That 's not really how it works , as someone suggested upthread , the letter is the first step towards an unsafe work environment . Walking off now and then trying to " backdate " that kind of claim could easily be taken as evidence of the player bargaining/operating in bad faith . <p> I have several leftish -- at least by today 's standards -- blogs on my RAS feed , and that 's that . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care . I get nearly as good football coverage from these blogs as I would from follwing ESPN . It ai n't that important , folks . I know there 's a labor angle here , but it 's amazing how many non-NFL blogs provide NFL coverage anyway . <p> The overwhelming majority of the players want the regular referees back . They have spoken out about it too . Only dirty players like Cortland Finnegan like the replacement refs because they can get away with murder . <p> As said above , the players ' CBA prevents them from doing anything other than give lip support to the regular referees . <p> I keep hearing that the replacement refs will " grow " into the job , but I keep seeing more and more mistakes with each passing week . Some of them have no freaking clue what to do out there . <p> Anyone see the referee throw his hat in the end zone and the Dallas Cowboys player slipped and fell on it ? It 's like damned Keystone Kops out there . <p> But as Steve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . As long as they are busting the referee 's union they do n't care about player safety . <p> Any interview Roger Goodell gives I hope the journalist asks him how he can sit there and lecture about player safety when the scab refs are basically allowing headhunting to go on . <p> @ Pooh : Right and I guess the point I was trying to make poorly ... is I do n't blame the new guys on the field now they do n't have the legitimacy or the balls to make the needed calls . I blame the league , and the odd dirty player for taking advantage of the situation . <p> @ raven : I think you 're agreeing with me that in many cases , bad refs are worse than no refs . <p> As an interesting counterpoint I have some experience playing a largely self-officiated sport at a high level ( ultimate frisbee ) , there has been an ongoing debate about the use of officials in high level play for over a decade , and a very commonly held position ( which I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the game more physical and dirtier because people will quickly identify spots where the refs ca n't be looking and take liberties , whereas now , if you grab me , I call a foul . <p> @ Pooh : Why do the owners have any incentive to get rid of these shitty refs ? They already know that player injuries do n't seem to dissuade viewers . There 's no impact to their bottom line if they keep the shitty refs . <p> No , I 've never engaged in contact sports . ( Though cheerleading seems to be the most dangerous high school sport nowadays , go figure . ) That is a deliberate choice on my part . <p> @ smith : One of the players on Football Night was just asked about players and the " substitute teacher syndrome " and whether or not players we pushing the rules to get and advantage . He said " I hope so " . <p> @ suzanne : I mean I do n't want to appeal to authority here , but you just do n't know what you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ phenomenon is real in this spot . I mean sure , football is a violent game that involves great risk of physical injury . If you want to oppose football on that grounds , full stop , be my guest . But that has virtually nothing to do with this current debate , and all you 're doing is making the sporting equivalent of the " everything is good news for republicans " argument . <p> Compare these refs to , say , MLB umpires , who are fucking assholes and will punish players severely for even the hint of questioning their authority . <p> I think MLB umpires are a little over the top , but it is important for refs to maintain control of the game and players . That 's why they are there . If players see that other people are getting away with stuff , they will do it too . No one wants to play against an unfair advantage where some players are dirty and get away with it , so it escalates until the refs assert control . <p> @ cathyx : I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ money can buy prepping a walkout at the earliest possible moment that wo n't mean cutting their own throats in the process . If they do this wrong , they wo n't exist the next time the owners pull something stupid . <p> @ Pooh : No , I was agreeing that " Pickup games are n't generally dirty because the players explicitly police themselves . " In the case I cited the refs were pretty good but it was the attitude of the players toward them . When they had refs the turned their anger on them but when they played on their own they would have had to fight every other play if they did n't respect each other . <p> you want bad calls ? ? ? did anyone see that chiefs/saints game ? ? 8 overturns , a million and a half bad calls/wrong calls/no calls . I absolutely agree they are gon na get someone killed . when you have 8 different players on one team taken out for injuries , flips , and just stupid stuff , you have to know as an official @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : No , I 'm saying that the owners are selfish , R-money-esque bastards ( truth ) who will not make a change that will cost them money or power unless they have an incentive to do so . Protecting their players has already been shown to not be much of a concern to them . Viewers are the only ones that can provide that incentive . <p> Has anyone seen Roger Goodell and Scott Walker in the same room at the same time ? The people complain about Unions or Regulations do n't know their history ; Unions and Regulations are the result of fucking people over and the people getting tired of it . <p> @ Pooh : Not over time they did n't . I knew most of the people in all the leagues I ran . In fact my hippie softball team " The High and Mighty " were notorious for getting in shit . It was pretty amazing they hired me the clean up the leagues . We had a mix of hippies and x-Illini athletes that made for great parties and pretty decent ball @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the remainder of the season . Any Steelers fan with any respect for the sport will burn their Rapelisberger jersey after this game . Nothing but cheap , illegal hits all game long , and they still could n't beat the Raiders . Maybe if they actually kill someone next game ; God knows they tried today . <p> Today 's newspaper had an astonishing array of bizarre pink-colored stuff for sale in honor of breast cancer , which let me say I 'm so fucking sick of seeing everything pink . I posted a picture of the ad on my blog , I think you 'll be amused . <p> There 's a potential impact : if fans genuinely dislike badly officiated games , they 'll stop watching and the league will notice that TV viewership and maybe even in-person attendance* are going down . My interest in the NFL has been waning for years , and the bits and pieces I 've seen so far this year have done nothing to rekindle my interests . Bad refs make the games less fun to watch , and the NFL @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until the real refs are back . <p> *This is unlikely , since teams seem to deliberately set ticket prices at a level where there 's a substantial excess demand . <p> Romney is such an unbelievable douchebag . He 's not even trying to hide it anymore . You say that shit on Fox News when just your mouth-breathing imbecile base is watching , not on 60 Minutes when normal people are watching . <p> Start a movement to convince people to stop watching . Get the majority of viewers to stop watching . <p> Convince people to stop going to the games . Let players play in empty stadiums . <p> Make it a mark of shame to go to or watch games . <p> That sort of financial hit plus shaming is the only way the owners will change their minds . <p> These are people and your most valuable commodity , and you are just willing to get them killed to save a paltry 200k a year per team . <p> There are a whole bunch of players willing to take the place of those playing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injury . Players are cogs in the wheel of greedy owners ' business . There will always be replacements until and unless the players take a stand and/or the fans take a stand and quit watching . <p> Love your page but if this is the NFL union busting , which I believe it is , then why are you watching it . If you truly believe in unionism and solidarity then turn off the game and watch something else . If you do n't then you are enabling the busting . <p> @ Villago Delenda Est : This is not really about saving $200K on the refs . That 's chump change to the NFL owners . This is about fucking over the refs as a example to the players union , who 's basic agreement is coming due next year . They want to show that they can screw anyone they want , and the refs are an easy target . They could just as easily gone after the hot dog vendors at the stadium . <p> The parties settled the lawsuit on July 25 , 2011 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The NFL officially recognized the NFLPA ' s status as the players ' collective bargaining representative on July 30 , 2011. 45 The NFL and NFLPA proceeded to negotiate terms for a new collective bargaining agreement , and the agreement became effective after ratification by the players August 4 , 2011 . <p> if fans genuinely dislike badly officiated games , they 'll stop watching and the league will notice that TV viewership and maybe even in-person attendance* are going down . <p> Yes , I agree . Perhaps I was n't clear . As long as people watch , and buy NFL tickets and gear , then the owners do n't have any incentive to get rid of the bad refs . But when viewers stop watching , that will send a message loud and clear . Players that get injured can be replaced by countless others , ready and willing to risk their health for the promise of money and fame . <p> @ Chief : I 'm only watching because the local Buffalo Wild Wings a ) has The Most Awesome Soda Machine on the Planet , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( I ca n't find another place with even one ) , and b ) a bunch of employees that do n't mind if I sit in one of their booths for eight hours writing while spending nothing but the $2.48 they charge me for all of The Most Awesome Soda I can drink , plus a really big tip . <p> The Niners are my team , but I dig the Raiders , too . Where their mutual interests collide , go Niners . <p> I first paid attention to the Raider 's during the second half of the Immaculate Deception Game . I was waiting on the Niner-Cowboy play-off game to begin , actually . When I tuned in , not caring about the Raiders one way or the other , Kenny Stabler took over . They were fun to watch , and I made a point to keep an eye on them the next year . That year turned into an era , and I must have caught every epochal battle between the two teams . I watched way , way more Raider games that decade than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that much sweeter . <p> The Niners got outright whipped , unfortunately . It will be interesting to see how they respond . They snuck up on a lot of teams last year . <p> Went to see the Titans/Lions game today , and met Finnegan 's mother . ( he 's a former Titan , I guess she still lives here ) The game was pretty well officiated , overall . However , I came home and watched the Denver/Houston game , and Shaub nearly got murdered two plays in a row . I was waiting for a flag . Still waiting , in fact . <p> If I quit doing business with any entity that was aggressively anti-union , I 'd never have to leave the house . Boycotts seldom work . <p> Where the hell are they , and why are these union players crossing the picket line ? <p> Hah ! This is the union that won real ( baseball style ) free agency in court , then union president Gene Upshaw ( always in the owner 's pocket ) gave it back . Hell , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ picket line . Football never had a Marvin Miller , and needs one desperately . ( And semi-OT , the dunderheads who run the NHL are just as bad . ) <p> You know , I no longer think it 's merely tone-deafness , or ineptitude ( although both of those things are true ) . I 've thought for a while , and now with this I completely believe , that Mittens really really does n't want to win , does n't want to be President . I think he wanted the Republican nomination ( avenging Daddy ? ) , he got that , and now he 's doing all he can to ensure he does n't win on November 6th . If he were to win , I think he 'd be the most terrified , paralyzed-with-fright person on earth the morning of November 7th . At this point , it just ca n't be an accident that he 's saying stuff like this . <p> @ suzanne : The inability of fans to see that they can collectively influence the owners is baffling . I keep seeing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suggestion that sticking it to the owners might influence things . <p> Denying owners of income from TV revenue , merchandise sales , ticket sales , etc. and shaming are the two types of leverage fans have . Why do they not use it ? Watching the games and then whining about it online will do zilch . <p> Mr. Beale was haranguing about the replacement refs in the Titans game today . I missed the play so I do n't know the particulars , but come to think of it he curses the replacement refs ever game we watch . <p> Hard to conjure two teams I like less than Raiders and Steelers , although I 'd have to toss the Cowboys into the cesspool . <p> Nevertheless , JC is right -- the NFL has to place their trustbusting hobby aside and settle with the refs . The owners will be jacking their prices for seven-hundred " really good reasons " they 'll peddle their fleeced fans , so why not make it seven-hundred-one ? <p> We fans do n't have the balls , or attention span , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm not a huge NFL football fan , but one close enough to the edge that the violence of the sport is starting to turn me off . You should n't have a sport where there 's a custom-built vehicle on the sidelines to cart off the maimed ( those flat-bed golf carts ) . As a Rutgers grad , Eric LeGrand is n't really inspiring to me , but mostly tragic . <p> Football 's a great game , but these guys have just gotten too good at fucking each other up . <p> The refs are a disgrace . Watched Bears/Rams and players are clearly taking advantage . Lot of late hits only some of which were called . Watching Ravens/Baltimore which could turn into a complete bloodbath . But I realized today yet another reason why the owners are utterly stupid about this . A couple of " wise guys " at my gym were talking about how the NFL games are all fixed because of all the gambling money and that the fixers are usually the refs . While I do n't believe all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ refs and a general air of incompetence , exponentially increases the risk that more people will doubt the integrity of the game or for that matter that games actually will be fixed . Given the effort the NFL puts into addressing internal gambling , this is like having an elaborate security system but leaving the front door open . Actually , and I know this is part of the problem , this Baltimore game is kind of fun , in an old time football way . <p> Capitalist egos and sports do not mix well . Cities with stadiums should eject the teams and start their municipal teams along the same lines as Green Bay . Let the greedy besotted owners build their own stadiums somewhere with their own money . If enough cities did it they could form their own league and their mayors would end up Senators . <p> @ Hill Dweller : Kroft was being Kroft and Pelley was being Pelley . Mitt gave his used car salesman spiel and the President of the United States looked like he was up all night . Oh , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the day before . <p> @ Pooh : Change is n't easy and people generally have to sacrifice to get results . So you miss some football . Do you want good football with quality refs or not ? Changing the system is what is required and has to start somewhere . <p> Personally I do n't care about football one way or the other , so I 'm on the outside looking in . It 's baffling to me that fans ca n't see that together they can influence the situation . Fans have the power . Just imagine if NO ONE watched , say , the next Steelers game . And NO ONE outside of rich people in luxury boxes went to the game . And maybe even outside the stadium fans burned their Steelers jerseys and terrible towels and other gear . All while picketing with " Bring back the real refs " signs and an organized online and social media campaign maybe even punishing advertisers for supporting " purposeful injury to players . " <p> Just imagine the attention that kind of protest would get . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be terrified it would spread to their teams . Fans in other cities would start organizing their own boycotts . <p> It would work . It could work . But fans " do n't want to miss football . " The thing is , they 're missing it already . What they 're watching is n't regular NFL football . What do they have to lose ? <p> Yeah , nobody wants to watch footballers suffer &; die ( although there appear to be plenty of Republicans who are not so sure about that for old people ) . Thats why we do n't want them killed while actually playing the game . If they go early because of repeated blows to the head or hobble along with a walker on artificial knees and hips like Jim Otto and so many others or suffer daily pain from compression fractures to the spine they should at least have the decency to do it out of the spotlight where we do n't have to witness it . <p> Given the well known medical problems that result from NFL -level football even when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sharing your outrage John . Modern American football is our version of gladiator matches , we just prefer our expendable fodder to cripple and die off the field instead of on . <p> At least the Romans were honest about their bloodlust . You guys can keep your games , because as long as you keep watching things will never change . <p> @ suzanne : Y'know , suzanne , as someone who has quit watching football specifically because of issues of player safety : Please to be shutting up now . You are making readers less likely to do what you want . You are an antivangelist for your cause . You are bringing people around to your point of view in exactly the same way Fred Phelps is bringing people to Christ : Not . At . All . <p> I do n't have the time or skills to effect a social media campaign , but if someone could get going a twitter feed encouraging boycotting Coors , Bud , and Miller , until the real refs come back , well , you know what would happen ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be better to speak on that . Here 's a starter though with the statement of GB 's exemption . As for another league , it 's been tried : check the Wiki on the USFL and you may recall " Arena " football -- neither lasted too long . However my recollection of the the AFC ( nee ' AFL ) was at one time an independent outfit . Before my

@@5040241 <h> Subscribe <h> When does a headache need to be seen at the hospital ? <p> As a neurosurgeon , I encounter a lot of people who are concerned with ruptured brain aneurysms ( blood vessel blisters ) . Ruptured brain aneurysms typically present with severe headache . I am incessantly asked , " When is a headache more than just a headache ? When should I go to the hospital ? " <p> A headache is considered to be pain located anywhere in the region of the upper neck or head . It is one of the most common locations of pain in the human body and can have many difference causes . There are three major categories of headaches which include primary headaches , secondary headaches , and cranial neuralgias which can be associated with facial pain . <p> Primary headaches include tension , migraine , and cluster headaches . <p> Secondary headaches are those due to something affecting the underlying structure of the head and neck . Causes include bleeding in the brain , tumors , meningitis , and encephalitis . <p> The third type of headaches which involve neuralgias and facial pain are usually caused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . <p> Tension headaches are the most common type of primary headache and are more common in women than men . Their cause is unknown but thought to be due to the contraction of the muscles covering the skull . Tension headaches usually occur because of physical or emotional stress placed on the body . Symptoms of a tension headache include pain which is described as " tightness " that begins in the back of the head and upper neck . It is usually mild in intensity , bilateral and not associated with vomiting or sensitivity to light . Usually , these headaches do not impair function . <p> Migraine headaches are the second most common type of primary headache and are also more common in women than men . They are associated with unilateral headache , nausea , vomiting , and sensitivity to light . <p> Cluster headaches are rare primary headaches and occur more commonly in men than women . The cause of cluster headaches is unknown . They tend to run in families , which suggest genetics may play a role . They may be triggered by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a cluster headache include unilateral pain in the face and head that is sharp in quality and very short in duration . The pain is usually excruciating and the eyes and nose may become watery . <p> Secondary headaches include causes such as head and neck trauma , blood vessel problems in the head and neck ( ruptured brain aneurysms fall into this category ) , non-blood vessel problems in the brain , medications , infection , and changes in the body 's normal environment , problems with the structures of the head , and psychiatric disorders . <p> Headaches are treated differently depending on the type , cause , and nature of the headache . <p> Tension headaches are usually treated successfully with medications such as aspirin , ibuprofen , acetaminophen , and naproxen . If these fail , supportive treatments should be sought out such as massage , biofeedback , and stress management . If mild , migraine headaches are usually first treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents , or NSAIDs . The drugs of choice for migraines are considered to be triptans such as Imitrex , Maxalt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and Treximet . Some other medications used include ergots , anit-nausea medications , butalbital combinations , and opiates . Cluster headaches are usually treated with inhalation of high concentration of oxygen , injection of triptan medications , injection of lidocaine , ergotamines , and caffeine . Preventative medications include calcium channel blockers , prednisone , lithium , and valproic acid . <p> When should a headache be treated ? <p> A patient should seek medical care it for a headache when it is considered the " worst headache of his/her life , " different than a usual headache , starts suddenly or is aggravated by physical exertion . Medical care should also be sought if the headache is associated with nausea and vomiting , fever , stiff neck , seizures , trauma , changes in vision , changes in speech , changes in behavior , weakness , is getting worse , and/or is disabling . <p> Why should a headache be treated ? <p> A headache should be treated because it may be caused by something serious or be associated with a worsening condition and if left untreated may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so that it does not become disabling and impair normal function . Overtreatment should be avoided due to the fact that some medications , once stopped , may cause rebound headaches . So , to answer my simple original question , " When is a headache more than just a headache ? " with a simple answer ; any headache that presents with neurological deficits and is different than a usual type of headache that you suffer , requires medical attention . <h> Comments <p> http : **26;6574;TOOLONG Mike <p> Based on my own personal experience , having suffered a ruptured Cerebral Aneurysm , you will almost immediately know that this headache is different . The severity is tremendous and constant ; it does not , again in my case , ease up . <p> As I understand , a severe headache is the most common patient complaint at an emergency room . Thus Doctors , particularly ER Doctors , have to tread a fine line when deciding when a patient needs expensive and , often uncomfortable , testing for what could be a life threatening Aneurysm vs. a bad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aneurysms they are expensive and not all facilities have the necessary equipment . Additionally , they do not detect every Aneurysm . What is needed is an inexpensive , quick and accurate method of detecting Aneurysms as commonplace as X-Rays and comparable in costs . Ideally , something that could detect small un-ruptured Aneurysms and be incorporated into annual physicals , at least for patients with risk factors or a family history .

@@5040341 <h> Is it a good idea for kids to have a cell phone ? <h> Question <p> Our oldest child has started driving and all of our kids are constantly on the move . My spouse thinks they need cell phones in order to stay better connected with us . Do you think this is a good idea ? <h> Answer <p> The answer to your question is yes and no . A great deal depends on your family situation , the maturity level of your kids , and the values you 've attempted to instill in them during their growing-up years . Technology can benefit us in many ways , but it also has its downside . Your spouse is absolutely right about the importance of maintaining connections with your children in today 's uncertain and fast-paced world . But this is not to say that the plan you 're considering does n't merit a second look . It comes with its fair share of legitimate reasons for concern . <p> If you do decide to hand out phones to every member of the family , it would be best to preface your action by laying down some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it clear to your kids that if they are to have their own cell phones , there will be a number of specific rules and guidelines they 'll need to follow . We 'd suggest that you include the following . <p> For most families , one of the biggest issues connected with cell phone use is the question of cost . It 's extremely easy for the average teen or pre-teen to use up his or her monthly allowance of minutes in less than a week . For this reason , our first recommendation is that you require your kids to pay their own phone bills . That 's a completely reasonable expectation for most teenagers . You may opt to help with the cost , of course -- that 's your prerogative -- but in that case you should set a limit on the number of minutes your children will be allowed to call each week . If they go over that limit , they 'll be responsible for the extra charges . If they do n't pay up by a predetermined deadline , you 'll need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You should also set limits on the number of minutes they can spend on the phone at home . One hour per evening is more than enough . And it 's certainly appropriate to require that they finish their homework and chores before engaging in any chit-chat . <p> Second , driving and talking on the phone do n't mix . Research has demonstrated that a driver 's reaction time is significantly affected when he or she is talking on a cell phone -- even if it 's a hands-free set-up . Tell your kids that if they must use the phone in the car , you expect them to pull over and stop before having a conversation . Of course you ca n't monitor them for compliance , but let them know that any cell phone-related accidents will result in the loss of the phone and their driving privileges . <p> Third , we can assume that teenage boys and girls have been spending a fair amount of time talking to each other on the phone ever since the days of Alexander Graham Bell . You are n't going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happening -- there 's no way to countermand the natural attraction between the sexes . But it 's important to bear in mind that today 's world is very different from the one in which most moms and dads established their earliest connections with members of the opposite sex . If your kids are going to have their own cell phones , you need to teach them -- male and female alike -- to be cautious and discerning . " Sexting " -- the practice of exchanging sexually themed text messages and photos over the phone -- has become a serious issue among teens in the past couple of years . The same observation applies to Internet browsing , e-mail , and instant messaging . If you are n't regularly discussing male-female relationships , safety issues and sexual purity with your kids , now might be a good time to begin . <p> If you 'd like to discuss your questions at greater length with a member of our staff , feel free to contact our Counseling Department . They are available to speak with you Monday through Friday between @ @

@@5040441 <h> MEN AND WOMEN ONLINE <p> PUB . DATE <p> January 2010 <p> SOURCE <p> NZ Marketing Magazine ; Jan/Feb2010 , p99 <p> SOURCE TYPE <p> Periodical <p> DOC . TYPE <p> Article <p> ABSTRACT <p> The article provides information on the most male-dominated and female-dominated websites in New Zealand as of October 2009 , namely directbroking.co.nz with 72 percent male traffic and fashion.co.nz with 97 percent female traffic . <h> Related Articles <p> The article reports on a U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission-released report which claims that a state-owned Chinese telecommunication firm is responsible for the hijack and reroute of traffic to several U.S. government websites in 2010 . <p> The article reports on the findings of a research by ComScore which showed an increase in Internet traffic to political web sites in Great Britain in 2008 . Increase in traffic during the year reached 54% . Majority of the audience for these sites was male representing 65% of these surveyed . The ... <p> The article reports on the selection of conversion-driven marketing agency 90octane in January 2009 to manage the pay-per-click ( PPC ) advertising program of AORN Works . The campaign , launched by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ redesigned Web site of the perioperative nursing ... <p> The article reports on an increase in Comparethemarket.com insurance Web site 's unique visitors year on year brought about by its Compare the Meerkat campaign . According to Nielsen Online , the site has seen an increase from 218,000 to 1.1 million between February 2008 and February 2009 . The ... <p> The article reports on the relaunch of the Crimewatch Website by British Broadcasting Corp . ( BBC ) in Great Britain in May 2009 . According to BBC Site Producer Joanna Witt , their new format destination site aims to offer the public online access to advice and information about crime and ... <p> The article reports on a 2% decline in paid search traffic to retail sites in Great Britain in 2008 , based on figures released by web measurement company Hitwise . Such decline is attributed to a budget squeeze and consumers ' decision to visit retail sites directly . Hitwise noted that Internet ... <p> The article reports on a monthly Web traffic record of 1,894,520 user sessions established by Michigan 's official tourism Web site @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ firm , reports that the state 's tourism Web site is the most popular tourism site in the U.S. , receiving ... <p> The article presents statistics on a variety of topics including the number of times the revenue behaviorally-targeted advertisements ( ads ) generate than regular , run-of-network ads , the number of magazines that stopped circulation in the first quarter of 2010 , and the fraction of magazine web ... <p> The article focuses on marketing a patented product or service using a Web site . It says that tools are offered by Google to help boost revenue and bring quality traffic to a Web site from pay-per-click campaigns or sponsored links . It

@@5040541 <h> Important Quotations Explained <p> These words are spoken by Pi early in Part One , at the end of chapter 4 , after a long discussion of zoo enclosures . Mr. Patel , Pi has recently told us , runs the Pondicherry Zoo , a place that Pi considered paradise as a boy . Pi has heard many people say negative things about zoos -- namely that they deprive noble , wild creatures of their freedom and trap them in boring , domesticated lives -- but he disagrees . Wild animals in their natural habitat encounter fear , fighting , lack of food , and parasites on a regular basis . Given all these biological facts , animals in the wild are not free at all -- rather , they are subject to a stringent set of social and natural laws that they must follow or die . Since animals are creatures of habit , zoo enclosures , with abundant food and water , clean cages , and a constant routine , are heaven for them . Given the chance , Pi says , most zoo animals do not ever try to escape , unless something in their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pi studied zoology and religion at the University of Toronto , and the above quote demonstrates just how closely aligned the two subjects are in his mind . He is quick to turn a discussion of animal freedom into a metaphor for people 's religious inclinations . Just as people misunderstand the nature of animals in the wild , they also misunderstand what it means for a person to be " free " of any religious system of belief . The agnostic ( someone who is uncertain about the existence of god and does not subscribe to any faith ) may think he is at liberty to believe or disbelieve anything he wants , but in reality he does not allow himself to take imaginative leaps . Instead , he endures life 's ups and downs the way an animal in the wild does : because he has to . A person of faith , on the other hand , is like an animal in an enclosure , surrounded on all sides by a version of reality that is far kinder than reality itself . Pi embraces religious doctrine for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a zoo enclosure : it makes life easier and more pleasurable . <p> 2 . I can well imagine an atheist 's last words : " White , white ! L-L-Love ! My God ! " -- and the deathbed leap of faith . Whereas the agnostic , if he stays true to his reasonable self , if he stays beholden to dry , yeastless factuality , might try to explain the warm light bathing him by saying , " Possibly a f-f-failing oxygenation of the b-b-brain , " and , to the very end , lack imagination and miss the better story . <p> Spoken by Pi , this quotation -- chapter 22 in its entirety -- emphasizes the important distinction between facts and imagination , the crux of the entire novel . Previously , in chapter 21 , the author used the phrases " dry , yeastless factuality " and " the better story " after a meeting with Pi in a caf ; the repetition highlights this dichotomy . Religion is aligned with imagination , while lack of faith is linked to accurate observation and rationalism . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ straightforward explanation for the variants of his own story : the one with animals and the one without . <p> The quote condemns those who lack artistry and imagination , the inability to commit to a story . Pi himself is a consummate artist , a storyteller , and he believes all religions tell wonderful tales , though not literal truths . Pi believes that atheists ( who do not believe in God ) have the capacity to believe ; they choose to believe that God does n't exist . At the end of their lives , they could embrace the notion of God and devise a story that will help them die in peace and contentment . Pi despises agnostics for their decision to make uncertainty a way of life . They choose to live a life of doubt , without any sort of narrative to guide them . Without these stories , our existence is " dry " and unpalatable as unrisen or " yeastless " bread . <p> This line is spoken by Pi approximately halfway through the book , in chapter 57 . The " you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pi relates his story over the course of many meetings in Canada many years after the ordeal . Of course , the " you " is also the reader , for Pi is aware that he is telling his story to a writer who has the intent to publish . By this point , we know that Richard Parker is a Royal Bengal tiger , an adult male , who weighs 450 pounds and takes up about one-third of the lifeboat . At first , it might sound ludicrous that such a menacing creature should get credit for keeping alive a slender , adolescent Indian boy , but Pi explains himself compellingly . The presence of Richard Parker , though initially terrifying , eventually soothes him and saves him from utter existential loneliness . Moreover , the necessity of training and taking care of Richard Parker fills up Pi 's long , empty days -- staying busy helps time pass . <p> The quotation can also be considered in the context of Pi 's second story , the one without animals , in which Pi himself is the tiger . @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its conflicting qualities : nobility and violence , grace and brute force , intelligence and instinct . In a way , these qualities are very human . But on a day-to-day basis -- for example , as we go to school , drive to the supermarket , and watch TV at night -- the elements of violence , brutality , and instinct are blunted . Instead of catching and killing fish , we purchase plastic-wrapped filets ; rather than hunt animals for meat , we buy steaks at the deli counter . Stripped of these conveniences , Pi must return to nature and reassert his animal instincts . He must overcome his squeamishness in order to eat . He must embrace aggression in order to kill the cook who might otherwise have killed him . In crediting Richard Parker 's existence for his own survival , Pi acknowledges that it is animal instinct , not polite convention or modern convenience , that protects him from death . <p> This comment appears about halfway through Part Two , as Pi adjusts to life at sea and philosophizes on the nature of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most of the game has been played out and the majority of the chess pieces knocked off the board . <p> Similarly , after the sinking of the Tsimtsum , only a handful of survivors ( Pi , Richard Parker , Orange Juice , the Grant 's zebra , the hyena ) remain . The few that are left are forced into a strategic battle of wits to see who will ultimately prevail . The tensions between the lifeboat 's inhabitants immediately after the ship sinks are high ; each inhabitant knows that the game is " sudden death " and that each move must be considered with special care . The zebra , the orangutan , and the hyena all make missteps and lose . But Pi painstakingly charts out his plan of action , and his diligence and foresight save his life . <p> Life on a lifeboat is simple , but , stripped of all else , the stakes become considerable : life or death . Pi 's life in the middle of the Pacific has no luxuries , no complex processes to participate in , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dangers -- Richard Parker , sharks , starvation , the blind castaway -- his only real choice is whether to fight to live or to give up and die . Though he considers doing otherwise , Pi chooses to fight . <p> The distilled quality of Pi 's existence is similar to the kind of bare-bones life lived by many religious mystics , for whom stripping down to the essentials is necessary for communion with God . A full , varied life with many distractions can cloud faith or even make it unnecessary . However , within a spare and even monastic existence , God 's presence becomes palpable . To put it another way , within the confines of a lifeboat , spirituality looms as large as a nearly 10 -foot , 450 -pound Bengal tiger . <p> Pi narrates these words in chapter 93 , toward the end of his ordeal at sea and as he is reaching the depths of his despair . As Pi mentions just before this , his situation seems " as pointless as the weather . " Up to now , Pi 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new activities : killing fish , taming Richard Parker , creating drinkable water using the solar stills , and so on . More notably , the blind French castaway and the days spent on the floating island gave Pi a change in routine . But now the novelty has worn off . This section , in which nothing is expected to happen , drives Pi into utter hopelessness , yet he must continue living . <p> At this point Pi turns to God and , Martel implies , invents the story that we have just read . His mind is desperate to escape the physical reality of continued existence on the lifeboat , and so it soars into the realm of fiction . At his lowest point , Pi reaches for the only remaining sources of salvation available to him : faith and imagination . Through the plot 's remaining action , Martel emphasizes that such a strategy for self-preservation can actually be astonishingly effective . Immediately after this moment in the text , Pi lands on a beach in Mexico . Like a deus ex machina suddenly offering resolution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is Pi 's escape

@@5040641 <p> Most people consider packing lunch a chore . But I 've always thought there is something exciting about brown bagging it . It 's like getting to take a picnic to school , on an airplane or to work . <p> And when you think of lunch as an opportunity to pack a special meal , it can go from dull to delicious . I learned long ago that I would be happier if I brought the foods that I like to eat from home instead of hoping that the cafeteria or nearby food court would satisfy me . <p> Here are some tips for making brown bag lunches stay fresh , safe , interesting and delicious . <p> Create themes to inspire lunches . Use favorite books , movies or holidays for kid 's and use favorite cuisines or pastimes for adults . <p> Pack one item that can be eaten as snack . My favorite snack is a batch of my homemade gorp ( good ole raisins and peanuts ) . Portion into snack-size bags so they are ready to pack at any time . Or up the ante and mix a couple of tablespoons of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then use to make a gorp-stuffed apple . <p> Freeze individual water or juice containers . Once frozen , wrap them in a paper towel and either foil or plastic wrap and place in the lunch box . Your frozen drink will double as a cold pack for keeping the lunch " refrigerated " and food safe . And ( of course ) it provides an icy cold drink . <p> Freeze bread and make sandwiches with the frozen slices . Wrap the assembled sandwich in a dry paper towel and slip it into a zip-close plastic bag or wrap with foil . By the time lunch arrives , the bread will be thawed and taste fresh and soft . Plus , the paper towel becomes a " placemat after you submit it , be sure to visit the commenting FAQ . <h> CONTESTS <h> Similar stories <p> From their kitchens to yours : South Sound readers unearthed favorite recipes that have been passed down for generations to help spice up your Thanksgiving tables . And for that we are eternally thankful . <p> There 's no doubt about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that ersatz chocolate syrup in a squeeze bottle . But it 's funny to think they coexist in the same dessert galaxy with basil sorbets and pink peppercorn-tinged ice cream . <p> Between the school bells , practice whistles , music lessons and all of the other activities that are about to kick into high gear , it 's no wonder family dinner often becomes a crazy rush hour at this time of year . It 's not just about putting dinner on the table -- it 's about doing it quickly . But it does n't mean relying on packaged meals , a drive-through window or a pound of ground beef ( though sloppy joes , tacos and are in every busy

@@5040741 <h> US Economy Is Likely To Slow During Summer Of 2012 : Economists <p> Job seekers wait in line to have their resumes reviewed during the San Francisco Hire Event job fair on November 9 , 2011 in San Francisco , California . The U.S. economy is likely to slow during the summer of 2012 , according to economists . <p> By Steven C. Johnson NEW YORK , May 4 ( Reuters ) - Concern the U.S. economy was heading for another summer swoon was mounting even before Friday 's disappointing jobs data . Economists are increasingly predicting 2012 will be another year when growth struggles along at about 2 percent . The United States is holding up better than Europe , where several countries have slipped back into recession . And there are signs of resilience in some measures of the economy , especially the manufacturing sector . Still , while American consumers increased their spending in the first quarter , growth in incomes is lagging , suggesting something has to give , and businesses began cutting investment earlier this year . And uncertainty about the outcome of the presidential and congressional elections in November , coupled with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spending cuts set to take effect in 2013 , may cause shoppers and employers to pull back . Fear has n't quite gripped the financial markets yet . Stocks fell on Friday , but the benchmark S &P; 500 remained up a healthy 9.2 percent this year . Some say that optimism is misplaced . " You 've really got to be whistling past the graveyard to think that all is jolly here , " said Joshua Shapiro , chief U.S. economist at MFR in New York , a global consulting firm . Add in the risk that Europe 's debt crisis deepens , which would hurt not only U.S. exports but also American banks , and annual growth of around 2 percent or less in 2012 may be the best anyone should hope for Economists at HSBC are telling clients to brace for a repeat of 2011 , when the economy started strong but fizzled as the days grew longer and temperatures rose . " Over the next two quarters , we expect that growth will average a bit less than 1 percent , reducing the year-over-year growth rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chief U.S. economist , wrote in a note to clients this week . That 's a worrisome prospect for just about everyone -investors , businesses and consumers , not to mention President Barack Obama , who faces a tough re-election battle . It could also persuade the Federal Reserve , which expects growth to land somewhere in a 2.1 percent to 3 percent range this year , to launch a third round of bond buying in the hope of further lowering rock-bottom borrowing costs . The central bank has poured more than $2 trillion into the financial system already through bond purchases . That has helped lower long-term interest rates and added fuel to a market rally . NOT ALL GLOOM-AND-DOOM Data on Friday showed the economy added 115,000 new jobs in April , far fewer than expected on Wall Street and a further slowdown from disappointing gains in March . Employers added more than 200,000 jobs a month from December through February , leading markets to hope the economy was finally turning a corner . Not everyone has given up hope . The consensus among Wall Street economists before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ percent between April and June , matching the first-quarter pace . Recent data has indeed painted a mixed picture . This week alone , reports on one hand showed growth in manufacturing and a decline in new applications for unemployment benefits while on the other hand there was a sharp weakening in the service sector and the decline in hiring . Economists at Credit Suisse said the pullback in hiring after the winter surge should come as no surprise . Indeed , many economists , including Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke , have said an unseasonably warm winter may have driven the quicker pace of hiring at the start of the year . " We interpret this as consolidation , not the start of a prolonged slowdown , " Credit Suisse said of Friday 's data in a note to clients . " Real private demand , which is a leading indicator of payrolls , has not in fact turned down . " JPMorgan economist Bruce Kasman conceded on a conference call on Friday that the economy was going through a soft patch but said he expects job gains to average @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expand by 2.5 percent . Still , even at a rate of 250,000 new jobs a month , it would take about eight years to roll unemployment back to the 5 percent rate that prevailed at the end of 2007 . <p> " We 're not looking for the U.S. to drift into recession , but we expect weak hiring and uninspiring growth , " said David Semmens , U.S. economist at Standard Chartered , who expects growth of 1.7 percent this year . " It will take a long time to get back to where we 'd all like to be . " <p> NO STRAIGHT LINES One reason the economy may struggle , according to Neil Dutta , U.S. economist at Bank of America-Merrill Lynch , is that wage growth simply is n't keeping pace with consumer spending . Adjusted for inflation , personal income grew at a slender 0.4 percent rate in the first quarter , while consumer spending , which accounts for about 70 percent of economic activity , rose 2.9 percent . That means consumers are not doing much saving , which ca n't continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dutta expects firms to restock shelves at a slower pace in the second quarter . " And the risk is that export growth will keep slowing in ensuing quarters because we 've yet to feel the full impact of the recession in Europe . " To complicate matters further , a host of temporary tax cuts on income , dividends , payrolls and capital gains are set to expire on Jan. 1 , the same day automatic spending cuts would come into effect and extended unemployment benefits would end . This " fiscal cliff " poses a big threat to the economy . If Congress does nothing , Nomura Securities estimates the measures could drain more than $1 trillion of stimulus from the economy , enough to plunge America into recession . Russ Koesterich , global chief investment strategist at iShares , said markets are not panicking yet . " People are worried but they feel some sort of fix will get done . " However , BofA 's Dutta fears the uncertainty will prompt firms and households to cut spending as the year goes on . Likewise , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ profits early , which could stop the stock market rally in its tracks . " People do n't board up their houses for hurricane season , " he said , " but they do board up their houses when a hurricane warning is issued . " Even if Congress avoids the crunch this year , some fear slower population and labor force growth will eventually require tax hikes to pay growing pension and social welfare costs . That could mean many more years of sluggish growth , said David Resler , U.S. economist at Nomura Securities . " I 'm increasingly of the mind that the last two years are a precursor of what the next 10 will be like , " Resler said . " That 's an alarming thought , because we need growth to fix most of the problems we have . " ( Additional reporting by Stella Dawson in Washington ; Editing by Leslie Adler ) <h> Loading comments ... <p> The industries that are increasing productivity do so by eliminating entire industries and entire job categories . <p> The global economy is facing a structural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Here is the critical backdrop for the global recession that is unfolding and the stated desire of central banks and states everywhere for " economic growth " : most of the so-called " growth " since the 2008 global financial meltdown was funded by sovereign debt and " free money " spun by central banks , not organic growth based on rising earned incomes . <p> Take away the speculation dependent on " free money " and the global stimulus dependent on massive quantities of fresh debt , and how much " growth " would be left ? <p> What policy makers and pundits dare not admit is that the global economy is entering the " end of paid work " foreseen by Jeremy Rifkin . I have covered this topic in depth many times , starting with End of Work , End of Affluence ( December 5 , 2008 ) . <p> castlemike : http : **30;12269;TOOLONG The industries that are increasing productivity do so by <h> Loading comments ... <p> Wait for it ....... big boost in the economy if Mittens is elected . Car elevator sales will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... phooey . I thought I was onto something ...... Maybe cartop dog crates ? ? <p> With the earth soon to harbor nine billion of us , our destructive assault on the biosphere , we will be lucky to experience merely a decline in living standards . A massive depopulation is more like what you should be gearing up for . <h> Loading comments ... <p> It would appear that we 're still in our 2nd great depression , the stimulus bills were just enough to save some existing jobs and create some moderate job growth , but not enough to repair the massive job loss hemorrhaging under Dubyah .... I wonder how many people are even applying for federal or state small business loans or grants or even bank loans to try and create jobs themselves to try and solve the problem instead of complaining about it online ? <p> Roosevelt 's socialist , big spending , government is the solution to everything policies delayed the recovery from the Great Depression by 3-4 ( the country needed World War II to get out of it ) . Obama @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want a scapegoat for the ' job loss hemmorhaging ' during President Bush 's term ? Try Barney Frank , who did more to cause the housing collapse that any other living human being . In fact , President Bush warned a Democrat Congress that it was coming , but it was easier to demonize him than to heed his warning . More inconvenient facts for liberal Kool-Aid drinkers who rely on People Magazine and college professors for their information . <p> noonze : Roosevelt 's socialist , big spending , government is the solution to everything <h> Loading comments ... <p> Profits of the multinational corporations are way up so they can afford to hold back on the throttle to stall the US economy and influence the election . Given the excuse of Europe , expect an assault on Wall Street investments . <p> ParrotPops : Profits of the multinational corporations are way up so they <p> Romney did n't inherit a penny . He donated his entire inheritance to charity and earned 100% of his fortune through smarts , hard work , and risk - things that are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ running this country into the ground . Romney believes in the things that made this country different and better than all others - limited government , free enterprise , individual accountability . This was not built by government , but in spite of it . There is nothing more we need to know . Obama will ruin this country if he has a second term . <h> Loading comments ... <p> the 1% 's " lord of the flies " freed trade agreements , greed based globalization , and suicidal capitalization of communist china have dug a big tunnel underneath american wages and thus working america 's standard of living . no , not so much a tunnel , but a subterranean pit excavated just below where 99% of americans ' stand . <p> america 's " have to actually work for a living " class ( the 99% ) is now experiencing that eerie feeling of the ground softening and their feet sinking with every step they take . <p> Yep , laughing at the gullibility of working rubes who swallow republican propaganda , despite all the evidence that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the expense of those who ca n't afford it . <p> ParrotPops : Yep , laughing at the gullibility of working rubes who swallow <h> Loading comments ... <p> We are just starting the transition from the growth model to sustainability model as baby boomers retire . Wealth transfer will come to the younger generations as the boomers die and the economy will reboot . I know that sounds morbid , but the boomers drove the economy to where we are now , and the predicted demographic earthquake has begun . <p> The boomers are projected to live for another 20-30 years and they are unlikely to have any wealth left to leave it to the next generation . <p> Boomers could reboot the economy by spending their wealth . That spending could be done wisely - expanding the economy or foolishly in consumerism and wasted healthcare . The choice is the boomers and the next generation <h> Loading comments ... <p> What idiocy is this ? Are you playing Johnathon Swift , or are you really suggesting boomers spend them selves into the poor house to sacrifice themselves for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into the pockets of a few folks who take it out of the economy ? <h> Loading comments ... <p> Still , while American consumers increased their spending in the first quarter , growth in incomes is lagging , suggesting something has to give , and businesses began cutting investment earlier this year . <p> Yet GOPers continue to tell us that more tax cuts to the upper end will spur the economy . <p> I have yet to see any evidence which supports the assertion that tax breaks for the wealthiest leads to increases in salaries and incomes <p> confuseddemocrat : &lt;blockquote&gt;Still , while American consumers increased their spending in the first <h> Loading comments ... <p> Economists have not told us why today 's America needs a two-income family . Despite what many write , need for two-incomes in a family are priorities and life-style . If we solved this issue - or rather made it easier ( tax incentives if needed ) to survive on a one-income family , we would : <p> 1 . Solve the unemployment crises . 2 . Solve the education dilemma with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 70% in big cities ) . 3 . Shrink the healthcare crises caused by lack of illness-prevention and end-of-life care ; costing 50% of all healthcare costs ; which is 2 trillion dollars . 4 . Reduce the cost of managing chronic illness and nursing home which accounts for 75% of healthcare costs and 70% of deaths . 5 . Reduce the 50% divorce rate . 6 . Reduce the high incidence of depression in adults and children . 7 . Reduce the high incidence of stress and stress-related disorders . 8 . Decrease the consumption of junk , fast-foods , prepared foods and alcohol . 9 . Rediscover the value of family , ( near and extended ) , neighborhood and society . 10 . Rediscover the importance of cultural values and ties . <p> Any one of the above should give us pause to realize what we are doing to ourselves ; and how history will judge and evaluate present civilization . Yet long before history judges us , our children and grandchildren will judge us by the type

@@5040841 <h> " I want to go on living even after my death ! And therefore I am grateful to G-d for this gift , this possibility of developing myself and of writing , of expressing all that is in me . I can shake off everything if I write ; my sorrows disappear ; my courage is reborn . But , and that is the great question , will I ever be able to write anything great ,

@@5040941 <p> Seventy-five thousand reservists in Israel have been called up for whatever Israel has planned for Gaza . It 's been bombarding it for three days and has asserted to the world that it must continue to respond to rocket attacks from Hamas because Israel can not tolerate such terrorism . Yet , when one examines the collective punishment imposed upon the people of Gaza , it is clear that there is no equivalency between the power of Hamas to terrorize Israeli civilians and the power of Israel to terrorize Palestinian civilians . <p> Hamas has committed crimes and abuses . Its rocket attacks are mostly inaccurate and , because they lack precision , they are widely considered to be war crimes . <p> The OSCE is a body , which the United States is a founding member . Observers have been sent to the United States to observe US elections since 2002 . But , now , Republicans in states where voter suppression could potentially occur are suggesting to Americans these people are here to violate American sovereignty as part of some left-wing ACORN conspiracy . <p> The United Nations special rapporteur for counterterrorism will lead an inquiry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to determine whether the strikes violate international human rights and humanitarian laws . <p> WikiLeaks editor-in-chief Julian Assange addressed members of the United Nations at an event with Ecuador Foreign Minister Ricardo Patino and Center for Constitutional Rights legal director Baher Azmy . He spoke to members on the current status of his asylum case and how the United States currently is engaged in a wide investigation into members of WikiLeaks and others , who the US believes to be connected . <p> Does he look like a person the US would target ? Is he a militant ? Such is the nightmare that is the US drone war . And it enjoys the support of both candidates running for president , especially President Barack Obama himself , who said today in front of the United Nations , " Understand America will never retreat from the world . We will bring justice to those who harm our citizens and our friends , and we will stand with our allies . " <p> The Obama campaign has responded by saying that the President is a strong supporter of ethanol as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Iowa at the time . But even if you support ethanol -- and studies show the corn-based version costs us more in energy to harvest than it 's worth -- you can not deny the economic harm created by the mandate at this time , given the drought conditions . The price spikes have caused a severe hardship for livestock producers in particular who use corn to feed their animals . The head of the UN 's food program , Jose Graziano da Silva , also called for a suspension of the ethanol mandate . <p> Here 's a classic case of what 's good for the US being terrible for the rest of the world . That typically does not lead to good outcomes for the world . Corn-based ethanol fails on its own merits . The energy used in production far exceeds the energy savings from using ethanol over fossil fuel-based energy . The biofuel standards could be reached by less invasive sources like switchgrass and other natural sources . Converting so much corn into fuel at a time of a massive corn shortage makes no sense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a third straight day , the most sustained challenge to the seat of power of President Bashar al-Assad . The Syrian government has escalated their response as a

@@5041041 <h> Contact Us <h> Hoyer says PMA ' ought to be looked at ' <p> The resolution pushed through the House by Democrats on Thursday is a clear call for the ethics committee to look at congressional ties to the troubled PMA lobbying firm , according to the House leader who brought it to the floor . <p> The wording of the resolution asks only that the House ethics committee report back on whether it is investigating PMA . But House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer ( D-Md. ) said the real meaning is that the committee should do something . <p> " The message was very clear , " Hoyer said at a Christian Science Monitor breakfast Thursday morning . " This is a serious matter and ought to be looked at . " <p> Hoyer also said that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi ( D-Calif. ) supported the move . Pelosi is the key ally of Rep. John Murtha ( D-Pa. ) , who is the political target of Republicans pressing the ethics committee to investigate PMA . Murtha is a top recipient of PMA campaign contributions and has doled out millions of dollars in earmarks to the firm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vote as a call for the House to " investigate " PMA , and Hoyer is backing them . Asked about a press release from Rep. Paul Hodes ( D-N.H. ) that said the vote shows " the House leadership finally has agreed this matter needs an investigation , " Hoyer agreed it was accurate . <p> He later clarified that " investigation " is a " loaded word , " and said the message is that the ethics committee should

@@5041141 <p> Hey baby I 'd like to talk to you How about coming back to my room for a little boom boom <p> You keep coming to me I can dig your dynamite Know the way you move Get in the groove You 're driving me crazy , crazy for you <p> Second time you moved me It 's time for us to boom boom You can come right close to me And feel the burning fire All the time you got me It 's fine for us to boom boom If you see the spark in me And feel my strong desire <p> Boom Boom Boom Let 's go back to my room So we can do it all night And you can make me feel right <p> Do the honor to me Do n't you know I like to bite Get to the view Closer to you You 're driving me crazy , crazy for you <p> Second time you moved me It 's time for us to Boom Boom You can come right close to me And feel the burning fire All the time you got me It 's fine for us to boom boom If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ desire <p> Boom Boom Boom Let 's go back to my room So we can do it

@@5041241 <p> Ewing , NJ ... Amidst Hurricane Sandy , the New Jersey Athletic Conference announced on Monday that seven student-athletes from The College of New Jersey earned weekly honors . <p> Senior Andy Gallagher ( New Foundland , NJ/Milford ) and freshman Jack Leahy ( Westfield , NJ/Westfield ) swept the men 's cross country awards after leading the Lions ' program to their 19 th consecutive NJAC championship title . Senior field hockey standout Caitlyn Jenkins ( Mickleton , NJ/Kingsway ) helped TCNJ to a pair of victories during the week and was tabbed NJAC Offensive Player of the Week . <p> Keith and Elaine Shangle are proud parents this weekend as both their son and daughter were cited by the conference . Senior Kayleigh Shangle ( Highland Park , NJ/Highland Park ) was selected as the NJAC Swimmer of the Week in women 's swimming and diving , while freshman James Shangle ( Highland Park , NJ/Highland Park ) earned NJAC Rookie of the Week honors in his first week of collegiate competition . <p> Senior Danica Roskos ( Pennington , NJ/Hopewell Valley ) and junior Stephen Tarnowski ( Ramstein , Germany/Ramstein American ) rounded out the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Week for the ninth time in her colorful career , while Tarnowski is the NJAC Swimmer of the Week for the third time in his tenure . <p> Gallagher took first in the 8k championship event with a time of 25:13.22 . He was the first to cross the finish-line out of 90 conference competitors . Leahy led all rookies and placed fifth overall , completing the race in 25:44.72 . <p> Jenkins had back-to-back multi-point games in wins over Manhattanville College and SUNY Cortland . She deposited a pair of goals and an assist at Manhattanville and tallied a critical goal and assist in a 4-3 victory over the visiting Red Dragons . <p> The eldest Shangle won the 100-yard breaststroke and the 100-freestyle in the Loins ' season-opening win over Montclair State University . She also led the 200-medley relay team to a top finish with a time of 1:54.38 . At Ramapo , Shangle won the 100-fly in 1:03.44 and was a member of the first-place 200-medley relay . <p> The youngest Shangle had a terrific start to his swimming career . In his first collegiate meet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shangle also participated in the 200-medley relay win . The following day at Ramapo , he won the 200-breast with a time of 2:14.92 . Shangle also swam in the 200-medley relay winner and placed third overall in the 200-backstroke . <p> Roskos , who is a two-time national champion in the 1-meter diving event , surprised no one with her first-place finish against Montclair State . She won that event with a score of 277.88 . <p> Tarnowski won a pair of individual events on Friday evening against the Red Hawks along with a first-place finish in the 400-freestyle relay . He won the 200-back and 200-butterfly with times of 2:04.74 and 2:05.19 . Tarnowski returned to the lanes on Saturday at Ramapo to win the 200-free ( 1:47.87 ) and 500-free in 4:57.109 . <p> On Sunday , the NJAC announced junior Matthew Chierici ( Towaco , NJ/Monville ) , a defensive back and return specialist for The College of New Jersey football team , was named Special Teams